Katie Barr
The BACKLIT fundraiser was a true celebration of creativity, community, and holiday cheer, all in support of an important mission: helping BACKLIT secure ownership of its building. This event brought together a massive variety of activities and talent, turning a small venue into a winter wonderland filled with joy and goodwill. From the moment you walked in, the atmosphere was enchanting. Fairy lights, tinsel, and a Christmas tree created a cozy festive vibe, enhanced by the inviting aroma of mulled wine wafting through the air. The sense of community was palpable – while many attendees seemed to know one another, newcomers were warmly welcomed, making the event feel inclusive and approachable.
The workshops were a great feature where adults could unleash their creativity by trying crafts such as embroidered Christmas cards. The exclusive kids’ workshop offered the younger attendees an opportunity to get involved in a supportive and fun environment, making this event a family affair where the children were welcomed rather than just tagging along. For those seeking a bit of whimsy, the Mermaid Tarot Readings were unforgettable. There was a blend of chaotic magic and artistic flair that left many guests with insights (and conversation starters!) to take home.
the prizes showcased the incredible support that BACKLIT received from local business
The raffle was a great touch to the evening that brought about laughs and light-hearted competition where the prizes were truly top-notch. From aerial classes at The Circus Hub to a PT session with MMA world champion Molly Cooper, the prizes showcased the incredible support that BACKLIT received from local business to make their goal happen.
the auction was a vibrant celebration of artistic expression
The highlight for many, me included, was undoubtedly the art auction, a dazzling showcase of creativity and community spirit. Featuring original works generously donated by BACKLIT’s talented network of artists, the auction was a vibrant celebration of artistic expression. Each piece on display carried its own unique story, style, and charm, reflecting the diverse talent the gallery nurtures. The bidding process was electric, with a mix of friendly competition and admiration of the art fuelling the excitement. Attendees eagerly competed for the pieces, not just for the joy of taking them home but also in a bid to raise the bids and contribute more to the fundraiser. This was accompanied by the comedic hits of the gavel after each sale. The sense of purpose added a heartfelt dimension to the fun, making every win feel especially rewarding.
I was thrilled to snag a piece myself – a stunning work by Terry Shave that now hangs proudly at home. It is not just a beautiful piece; it’s a heartfelt memo that encapsulates the joy and excitement of the event. The auction stood out as a testament to the community’s generosity, not only from the artists who donated their work, but also from the attendees who came ready to support. It was clear that this event wasn’t just about the art, it was about rallying together to celebrate and sustain a space that means so much to many. The energy and enthusiasm in the room was palpable, making it the highlight of an already unforgettable evening.
No fundraiser would be complete without music and refreshments. DJ Luxxxury and Princess Trium kept the energy high with their great performances, and Charity Shop Sue was a winner with her performance that truly entertained each attendee. Meanwhile the festive bar offered a range of drinks, the entry price included a free drink – non-alcoholic or alcoholic – further tailoring this event to everyone. There was an array of snacks available too, from Samosa’s and Mince Pies to the celebrations dotted around the room, perfect for when you got peckish.
a heartwarming evening filled with creativity, connection, and holiday spirit.
The festive fundraiser was a heartwarming evening filled with creativity, connection, and holiday spirit. It is rare to find an event that combines this much fun with a purpose this important so seamlessly. I left after so much fun feeling happy, wondering about other events that BACKLIT will be holding and looking forward to them becoming a permanent part of Nottingham’s scene. The team put on a fabulous event, so here’s to their continued success and I will be eagerly watching for what comes next.
Katie Barr
Featured image courtesy of Alex Watkin. Permission to use granted to Impact. No changes were made to this image.
In-article images courtesy of @backlitgallery via Instagram. No changes were made to these images. All photos taken by Tom Harris.
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