4/17: CIA and AIDS Task Force's ArtCares

Graffiti-inspired ’80s art star Keith Haring died of AIDS in 1990 at the age of 31. Multimedia sensation David Wojnarowicz died in 1992 at age 37. Erotic-art photographer Robert Mapplethorpe was 42 when he died in 1989. Wojnarowicz’s former partner, successful magazine portrait photographer Peter Hujar, lived into his early 50s before dying of AIDS complications in 1987. They’re the most prominent of a generation of artists whose potential was lost to the epidemic. Inspired to action, the Cleveland Institute of Art hooked up with the AIDS Taskforce of Great Cleveland in 2003 to present ArtCares, which is now an annual event. Students and faculty at the world-renowned school provide work in various media to be auctioned to benefit the AIDS Taskforce, with a silent auction of student work and a live auction of work by noted regional artists. Of course, there are refreshments — wine, beer and food are offered to accompany art browsing. A VIP reception from 6-7:30 p.m. adds a martini bar, a preview of the art and a chance to buy the items at listed value. The main event runs from 7-10 p.m. at the Saigon Plaza (5400 Detroit Ave.). Tickets are $50, VIP $100. Call 216.621.0766 ext. 255, or go to aidstaskforce.org/artcares2010.asp. — Anastasia Pantsios