FOLA Presents free Architecture/Art/Design Event

 The Foundation of Local Arts (FOLA) will have its third annual fundraiser on Thursday, November 17.  The topic is “Architecture, Art, Design --Modern Design Trends in the South Bay” which will be held at the new 1300 Highland Shops and Worklofts, from 6:30 till 9:00 pm.  The event is free to the public.

            Noted architect, Grant Kirkpatrick, AIA, who designed the complex, will be the main featured speaker.  Kirkpatrick is CEO and founding principal of KAA Design, a 23-year old firm that integrates architecture, interior design, landscapes, product design and product branding.  The firm may best be known for its extensive portfolio of custom residences and estates for clients such as Tom Hanks, Larry Ellison, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Pete Carroll.  In addition to residential projects, the firm has a growing portfolio of hospitality and commercial projects including stores for Banana Republic, Hugo Boss, Nicole Miller and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.  The firm has also been extensively published in magazines including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, The New York Times, The Wallstreet Journal and Los Angeles Magazine.

            Also presenting is Tim Clarke, founder and principal designer of Tim Clarke Interior Designs in Santa Monica, who works closely with Kirkpatrick.  The full-service design firm offers schematic design, interior architecture and custom furniture.  Clark’s signature coastal-influenced aesthetic has been highly sought-after by clients who wanted a new interpretation of a modern beach home that includes luxury, lightness and sustainability.  His clientele includes Sally Field, Ben Stiller, James Spader, Matthew Perry and Portia de Rossi.  He has been featured in  many leading design publications including Elle Décor, Architectural Digest, Veranda, InStyle Home and Town and Country.  He has also appeared on the Travel Channel.

            Four local FOLA artists comprise the ‘Art’ portion of the event.  Displaying selected items from their collections are Tricia Strickfaden, Marlene Yamada, Jennifer Hellman and Betty Mallorca.  “Art is an essential part of our lifestyle and, in my case, the ocean is my muse.  I am fortunate to live in the South Bay where I find inspiration everyday”, says Strickfaden.

            The venue has graciously been provided by Stroyke Properties.  Wine and small plates will be available for purchase.  RSVP by November 16 by signing in online at FoundationofLocalArts.com.