Mardi Gras May Be Over, but 'mARTi Gras' Is Just Getting Started

Handcrafted Mardi Gras-themed masks made by local artists will be auctioned off this week in Redondo Beach to support public art projects in the city.

"mARTi Gras" is set for 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Friday at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center as a benefit for the nonprofit Friends of Redondo Beach Arts.

In addition to the auctioning of 48 masks, all designed by local artists, the fundraiser will feature live music from Interstate 10, Cajun food from Hermosa Beach's Ragin Cajun and stilt walkers.

The nonprofit helps raise funds for public art projects in the city, including last year's Redondo Beach Harbor Drive Mosaic Wall Project, according to Nina Zak Laddon of the Friends of Redondo Beach Arts.

Laddon said she started by asking one artist from the Redondo Beach Art Group, but then others began to volunteer, saying they wanted to take part.

"I think it is because you work in your media, you are in your studio and suddenly, you get to play," Laddon said.

Tickets are $50 and are available online at FriendsRedondoBeachArts.org or by calling (310) 567-1117.

--City News Service