Abstract Origins | BCAI Cultural Arts & Humanities Gala

Schedule

Fri, 24 Apr, 2026 at 06:00 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

107 E Chestnut St, Bloomington, IL, United States, Illinois 61701 | Bloomington, IL

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Illinois Community, this is our annual moment to show what we can build when we invest in each other with intention.
Abstract Origins is BCAI Cultural Arts & Humanities’ signature fundraising gala — a grown‑up (21+), immersive night that blends global flavor, cultural arts, memory, and collective imagination. Every element is designed to honor where we’ve been, who we’re becoming, and the futures our youth deserve.
What to Expect:
Global Tasting Table – Small-plate flavors inspired by street food and home traditions.
Keynote Amplifier: Dr. Angell Howard - offering necessary insights that bring clarity, grounding and community charge
Cultural Arts Immersion & Networking – Mehndi Artist, Amreen, on site; Interactive stations with calligraphy keepsakes you can build through the Trifecta Game (3 interactive games that will earn you an affirmation keepsake and could earn you a $10 token towards the auction; note: Trifecta Game can be played for an additional $20 donation)
Live Performances – Guest Musical Artists Maestro Jones (partner/instructor), Mattie Mae (alumni), M0j0 (alumni); Guest Large Scale Live Paint Artist, Undra Uphoff
“Trip Down Memory Lane” scavenger hunt featuring photos, stories, artifacts, and QR codes from BCAI’s history
The Mirror Moment photo-opp installation
Front row seat to what happens with some of our beloved community allies/accomplices once we hit $20k (including annual pledges, new Patreon subscribers, program/participant/event sponsorships, ticket sales, general donations)
Why Your Support Matters
Our goal this year is $25,000, which includes tickets, pledges, Patreon memberships, and new sponsorships. Every dollar strengthens programs that teach emotional literacy, creative power, cultural grounding, and community leadership.
When you show up, you’re not just attending an event.
You’re investing in a future where our youth — and their networks — have the tools, space, and support to thrive.
Event Details
📅 Friday, April 24, 2026
⏰ 6–9 PM
📍 Hansen Student Center, IWU — 300 E Beecher St, Bloomington
🎟️ Tickets: bcai-cah.ticketspice.com/abstract-origins-bcai-cultural-arts--humanities-fundraiser
Call to Action
If BCAI has ever impacted you, your family, or this community — share this event, tag someone who needs to be in the room, and grab your ticket today.
Let’s build this future together.
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Where is it happening?

107 E Chestnut St, Bloomington, IL, United States, Illinois 61701

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