Face Off at The Box

The public is invited to the Face Off event on May 3, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St. in St. Joseph, MI. Fifteen professional artists will demonstrate their craft by creating portraits of live models in front of an audience. They will be accompanied by music from electric cellist Michael Jon DeHays. A cash bar and refreshments will be available. Admittance is $5 at the door, free for children 12 and under.

 Face Off gives audience members the rare opportunity to watch accomplished portrait artists, many of whom are professional artists and art teachers, paint or draw exquisite likenesses of their subjects. At least 15 artists will work at easels throughout the performance area of the Box Factory’s main floor. People watching are free to move around to view the different creative processes. Attendees can place bids on portraits they like in a silent auction. The highest bidder will take the piece home.

 The five models were asked to create a “look,” such as a character from history, says Robert Williams, the award-winning portrait artist and educator who spearheaded this year's Face Off event. “Because the artists’ work will be sold during the silent auction, we’re encouraging the models to be part of the creative process to help the artists create a beautiful piece of art rather than a portrait of a specific person,” Williams says.

 Adding to the relaxing, creative vibe of the event is electric cellist Michael Jon DeHays, whose music is described as “natural earth tones on solo cello.” DeHays, from Mishawaka, IN, performs and records under the name “Imphormal.” (Hear a sample at www.imphormal.com.)

Admission: $5