"To the citizens of Texas: You will be placed upon the rolls of protected when my species conquers your miserable planet." Signed, Beldar. Battlefleet Commander. AKA Dan Aykroyd of "Ghostbosters" and "Blues Brothers" fame, and in this case, a "Conehead" from "Saturday Night Live."
This comforting message is on the painting that Dan Aykroyd has created for the Celebrity Art Gallery for the fifth annual 8 x 8 Art Exhibit and Auction on Wednesday, November 18, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Museum of Biblical Art.
Art enthusiasts can bid on miniature works of art, each measuring only 8 inches by 8 inches, from international and regional gallery artists as well as these celebs: Carol Burnet, Lilly Tomlin, Jane Seymour; her son, Sean Michael Flynn; Dan Aykroyd, Kris Kristofferson, Anne Murray, Barbara Mandrell, Ruta Lee, Jo Anne Worley, Ruth Buzzi and Kent Perkins.
Comedian, Ruth Buzzi, and her husband, actor Kent Perkins, who participate each year with their paintings, have personally invited friends from across the television, film and music industries to participate in this year's Celebrity Art Gallery.
Other offerings will include a wide variety of paintings, sculpture, glass, photography and works on paper. It is a great opportunity to purchase fine art at reasonable prices. Over 100 artists will participate with the starting bid at only $100. Pieces are valued between $400-$5,000 retail, and many of the artists will be on site to meet guests and potential bidders.
The intriguing theme of 8 x 8 came from Jeff Levine, owner of modmedia.net, who created the event in 2010. “The number 8 is a symbol for the Hebrew word for life, which is Chai,” said Levine. “So, 8 x 8 is a double portion of life or a doubly-blessed life.” According to Scott Peck, MBA Curator and Director, “This annual event raises funds for all our educational programs throughout the year – field trips, Summer Art Camp for Kids, Heroes of History Field Trips, and special workshops we offer for both kids and adults. It’s a great opportunity to see the museum, learn about emerging contemporary artists and possibly purchase some fine art at reasonable prices – due to the low starting bids.”
