The Great Plano Art Heist

Saturday, October 25th, 6:00 p.m.

An evening of mystery, art, and celebration unfolds at the ArtCentre of Plano. Join us for a night of mystery, celebration, and creativity featuring:

For the Love of Art
Honoree Awards

A Live “art heist” Experience
That Unfolds Throughout
the Evening

Art With Impact
Juried Exhibition Opening

RESERVE YOUR PLACE

An evening where art, community, and celebration come together.

Event Energy

For the Love of Art brings together artists, patrons, and friends for a night that celebrates creativity and connection.

Culinary Experience

The evening features delicacies crafted by Central Market, curated wines, and thoughtful details that make the night special.

Shared Joy and Community

At its heart, For the Love of Art is about community—honoring those who support the arts and the creative energy that connects us all.

There is a thief among us! Can you help solve the mystery?

This year’s gala takes a playful twist. One of our guests has stolen the crown jewel of the evening — a signed print of Andy Warhall’s Plano Balloons. Throughout the night, clues will surface, motives will unfold, and suspects will mingle among the crowd.

You’ll have the chance to question, observe, and piece together the truth before the night is through. Keep your eyes open and your curiosity sharp — the detective’s reveal will bring the mystery, and the evening, to a surprising close.

Join the Investigation

Our 2025 For the Love of Art Honorees

Honoring those who shape Plano’s creative spirit

Since 2008, For the Love of Art recognizes the individuals and organizations whose creativity, leadership, and generosity make Plano’s arts community thrive.

They are artists, educators, volunteers, and patrons—people whose dedication reminds us why the arts matter and how they bring us together. Tonight, we celebrate their contributions and the inspiration they share with us all.

Gaby Castaneda Pruitt

Visual Artist honoree

View Bio
Gaby Castaneda Pruitt sees the world through a lens tuned to light, story, and connection. Her photographs—whether displayed at Craighead Green Gallery or featured in landmark exhibitions like *White Steel, Blue Skies* at the Latino Cultural Center—carry a quiet intensity that resonates long after viewers leave the gallery. Beyond her own artistry, she has shaped Plano’s cultural community as a past president of the Plano Art Association and now as curator of its gallery at The Shops at Willow Bend, creating spaces where stories unfold and communities grow. “Through art a conversation happens…we are storytellers. We grow. We explore. The medium, whatever it might be, proves to be therapy. We are all connected, and magic happens every day.” Gaby’s words mirror her life’s work: to use art not only as expression, but as a bridge—between generations, cultures, and people who discover they are less alone when they share a creative journey. GabyPruittPhotography.biz

Vandita Parikh

Performing Artist honoree

View Bio
Vandita Parikh has built a life and career dedicated to sharing the richness of Indian folk traditions through performance, teaching, and community engagement. As founder of Nruthya Shakti, she has introduced audiences across the United States to the stories, rhythms, and resilience embedded in folk dance, offering her students more than technique—an opportunity to connect with themselves, their culture, and their community. “For me, performing arts will always be my voice, my mission, and my flight. Every performance is a celebration—a bridge between cultures and generations.” Vandita’s artistry and advocacy have earned wide recognition, including the President’s Award from the Government of India (2011), a feature on *Good Morning America* (2014), keynote appearances such as the Indian Association of North Texas Woman of the Year event (2019), and performances for the Dallas Stars and Mavericks. Most recently, Vandita was honored with the Impactor Award for Arts from the Shubham Foundation (2025) and a Lifetime Award as Ambassador of Folk Traditions from GS DFW (2025). nruthyashakti.com

Erika Lynne Jones

Literary Artist honoree

View Bio
Erika Lynne Jones is a children’s book author and illustrator whose work celebrates imagination, representation, and the power of story. Drawing inspiration from her own journey as a homeschool mother and arts advocate, Jones creates books that reflect the richness of everyday life while offering young readers images of joy, curiosity, and possibility. “Art has helped me grieve some of the biggest losses and celebrate some of the biggest wins—it’s been my friend throughout my life. I believe art can be that kind of friend to everyone.” Erika’s recent achievements include a 2025 Starred Review from *School Library Journal*, the 2024 Outstanding Merit Recognition in the Best Children’s Second Grade Category for *The Loud Librarian*, and a 2023 selection to Mrs. Laura Bush’s Summer Reading List for the same title. Beyond her creative career, Erika served as the founding executive director of America SCORES Dallas and has dedicated her life to community and education. ErikaLynneJones.com

Jennifer Wheeler

Education honoree

View Bio
Jennifer Wheeler has been part of the Plano Symphony Orchestra for more than 20 years, performing as piccolo and third flute and, for the past decade, serving as Director of Education and Community Engagement. She leads the Symphony’s acclaimed School Concert Education Program, which reaches more than 18,000 students and teachers each year across 160 schools in 10 North Texas districts, including many Title I campuses. Designed for 3rd–5th graders, the program combines classroom resources, musician visits, and a culminating live concert that often introduces children to symphonic music for the first time. “The arts are the glue that fosters understanding, creativity, and meaningful connection.” Jennifer’s artistry has also earned distinction, including a Grammy nomination for *At the Movies with John Williams* with Dallas Winds and, as part of the PSO staff, the 2023 Distinguished Organization Obelisk Award from the Business Council for the Arts. Jennifer is especially passionate about advancing arts education, believing it helps young people build resilience, collaboration, and a lifelong appreciation for beauty. PlanoSymphony.org

Frost Bank

Corporate honoree

View Bio
In a world where relationships matter as much as resources, Frost Bank has stood for more than a century and a half as a true community partner. Here in Plano, that partnership extends into the arts, where Frost believes culture is not a luxury, but a necessity. Russ Burch, Market President, captures it best: “Supporting the arts is supporting people. We are all better together than we are apart, and art is the medium that can bring our neighbors closer.” As a Texas community bank, Frost takes its role seriously—investing in people, nurturing local connections, and strengthening the cultural fabric of the cities it serves. Its ongoing support of the arts is part of a broader vision: to make communities not only stronger, but more inspired, more connected, and more human. FrostBank.com

Mike Mazur

Leadership honoree

View Bio
Mike Mazur is Vice President of Youth Theatres at North Texas Performing Arts, where he has also served as Head of School for the NTPA Academy and directed for both the Youth Theatres and the award-winning Repertory Theatre. His leadership extends into the community, where he has hosted events including the Global Voices Concert Series, the Plano International Festival, Steinfest, and Dickens Fest. “The arts provide a crucial dialogue between people of varied backgrounds and experiences and serve as a necessary means of connection in an increasingly disconnected society.” A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with an MFA in Musical Theatre Writing, Mike has also taught as Professor of Musical Theatre at California State University, Chico. He is Past President of the Collaborative Arts of Plano, a graduate of Leadership Plano, Class 35, and has presented at international conferences in England and Greece. NTPA.org

Collaborative Arts of Plano

Organization honoree

View Bio
Step into Plano’s cultural landscape today and you will find the quiet but steady influence of the Collaborative Arts of Plano (CAP). Born out of a belief that the arts are essential to a community’s quality of life, CAP represents 26 member organizations in both the performing and visual arts. Its efforts are collaborative by nature, yet visionary in scope. One of its most transformative achievements has been leading the charge for the city’s first Cultural Arts Plan—a comprehensive roadmap now shaping Plano’s future as an arts destination. CAP exists to ensure that our residents can truly live creatively in Plano. From championing policy to amplifying the voices of local arts groups, CAP has become an anchor for creativity and inclusivity. Tonight, we celebrate CAP not only as an organization, but as a catalyst that has forever changed the way Plano embraces the arts. CollaborativeArtsofPlano.org

Kelly and John Hrad

Patron honoree

View Bio
Kelly and John Hrad are partners in life, art, and community. Kelly, honored as the For the Love of Art Artist Honoree in 2019, calls the ArtCentre her second home—the place that gave her the confidence to grow as an artist and pursue her work full time. John, General Manager of Lamborghini Dallas, has built his career on excellence in leadership and service while championing the couple’s shared passion for giving back. “The arts are about connection. They remind us that life is layered, complex, and worth pausing for. Supporting the ArtCentre has given us friendships we treasure and allowed us to be part of something bigger than ourselves.” Together, the Hrads created *For the Love of Art and Cars*, a signature fundraiser that connects their worlds while supporting programs like JumpStart for Arts. The event has become a vibrant gathering that brings together artists, collectors, and community members, raising vital funds to ensure children and families have access to transformative arts experiences. KellyStellerHrad.com

JoAnn Rodriguez

Volunteer honoree

View Bio
JoAnn Rodriguez has been a strong advocate for equity and access in the arts since joining the Governing Board of North Texas Performing Arts in 2014. She helped establish scholarships for low- and moderate-income families, launched the DEI Task Force, and built partnerships that brought diverse voices to the stage—including Hispanic, African American, LGBTQIA+, and Deaf Theatre programs. In 2022 she received the NTPA Legacy Award for her leadership and impact. “The arts are more than entertainment—they are a pathway to belonging, opportunity, and valuing every family.” For JoAnn, the arts are deeply personal. She has seen how theater gave her own children confidence and joy, and she believes creativity is essential to community life—building empathy, celebrating diversity, and creating belonging for every family. A native of Puerto Rico, she continues to bring this perspective to her broader work in affordable housing, education, and faith-based service.

Wanda & Cliff Parker

Legacy Achievement

View Bio
Wanda and Cliff Parker have long been among the most inspiring volunteer leaders in Plano’s arts community, dedicating their time, talent, and resources to the Plano Symphony Orchestra and beyond. The ArtCentre of Plano gratefully recognizes Wanda and Cliff Parker for their enduring support and leadership. Their legacy reflects the very best of what it means to champion the arts. Wanda’s leadership set a lasting example. A member of the Symphony Board since 2004, she served as Board President during the 2007 and 2008 seasons and later as Chair of the Development Committee. She was also deeply engaged with the PSO Guild, where she could always be counted on to write notes of thanks, make calls to supporters, and lend her time wherever it was needed. Her trailblazing spirit extended well beyond the arts—she was the first woman to graduate with a degree in Petroleum Engineering at Texas A&M University, and she built a successful consulting business in the oil and gas industry. Wanda’s passing in 2025 was felt deeply across the community, but her generous spirit and unwavering commitment to the arts continue to inspire. Cliff has shared in this commitment, supporting the arts alongside Wanda while contributing his own energy to community service. A graduate of Texas A&M with a degree in Electrical Engineering, he spent 30 years with the City of Garland in electrical transmission and distribution before retiring in 2011. He is also active with Texas Husky Rescue, lending his time and energy to animal welfare. Together, Wanda and Cliff have exemplified the impact of volunteer leadership—championing the symphony, fostering community, and helping ensure that the arts remain a vital part of life in Plano.

Art With Impact — a juried exhibition celebrating creativity, community, and cause.

Be among the first to experience Art With Impact, debuting the night of For the Love of Art.

This juried exhibition showcases works by 70 Texas artists, representing a wide range of media, styles, and prices. Each piece reflects the imagination and talent of our state’s creative community—and the proceeds are shared equally between the artist and the ArtCentre, supporting both the artist and the ArtCentre’s mission to keep the arts accessible for all.

View the Exhibition Beginning October 25

Bid on the Extraordinary in Our Live Auction

  • BBQ Dinner for 20 at the ArtCentre

    Host 20 guests for an unforget-table evening at the ArtCentre of Plano, featuring pit master Philip Morgan. Dinner includes classic fixin’s from Central Market, paired with wine and local-brewery beer. Date to be selected by the winning bidder.

  • $1,000 Gift Certificate from Eiseman Jewels

    Enjoy a $1,000 Eiseman Jewels gift certificate,* including a personal concierge shopping experience with an Eiseman specialist. Shop the coveted designer and diamond jewelry collections at Eiseman Jewels, located in NorthPark Center.

  • Photography Experience with David Downs

    Join photographer David Downs for a 4-hour private lesson that explores technique and vision. The winner will also receive an original photograph and a signed copy of his acclaimed book A Voice Expressed.

  • Private Painting Lesson with Jean Ellis Newman

    Discover your inner artist with a 3-hour private painting lesson from celebrated local artist Jean Ellis Newman, supplies included. This auction item also features an original painting by Jean.

Tickets and Reserved Tables Now Available

Raise a glass. Take a chance. Support the arts.

  • Uncork the Fun at the Wine Pull

    Take a chance, and raise a glass! The Wine Pull features wines carefully curated by Lynda and Jim McDevitt of Global Wine Merchant. From bold reds to crisp whites, each bottle is a guaranteed win and a delightful surprise. Located near the lower bar, the Wine Pull is a perfect way to support the ArtCentre.

    Only 25 bottles available—at $25 each pull. Don’t miss your chance.

  • Collect a Masterpiece

    Enter the Raffle for a rare chance to bring home works by acclaimed sculptors George Tobolowsky and Jerry Dodd, or enjoy a Downtown Experience with gift cards to local restaurants and shops. Each ticket purchased supports the ArtCentre while giving you the opportunity to begin or expand your collection.

    Raffle tickets are $25 each, or five for $100.

Tickets and Reserved Tables Now Available

For the Love of Art Honoree Award Sponsors

  • Carole & Howard Greisdorf

    Gaby Pruitt,
    Visual Artist Honoree

  • Gwen Williams Family Law

    Mike Mazur,
    Leadership Honoree

  • Frost Bank

    Kelly & John Hrad,
    Patron Honoree

For the Love of Art Table Sponsors

  • NTPA/Darrell Rodenbaugh

  • Bob Drotman

  • Jean Ellis Newman

  • Frost Bank

  • Medical City Plano

  • Beth & Frank Turner

  • Valeo Capital/Bobby Baggett

  • Chris Krupa Downs & David Downs

  • Plano Symphony Orchestra

  • Kristin & Ben Wilson

  • Katherine Goodwin

  • Heather Heffner

  • Craig Perry & Tom Venner

  • Lupita Murillo Tinnen

  • Gwen & Anthony Williams

  • Megan & John Bourgeois

*This gift certificate is non-transferrable and may not be used in conjunction with any other gift certificates or discounts, this may be used on any in stock jewelry merchandise and must be redeemed before October 25, 2026. Excludes all timepieces, diamond stud earrings, solitaire diamond rings, and diamond pendants, for more information please inquire with an Eiseman Jewels specialist in our salon. By appointment only.

Finding Joy

Kelly Steller Hrad

Bold color. Sculptural texture. A journey of reflection and joy.

Portrait of Kelly Steller Hrad in a white shirt with playful, colorful streaks of paint, as she holds palette knives in front of her.

Finding Joy showcases 65 works by Kelly Steller Hrad—including 40 new paintings—in a powerful homecoming exhibition at the ArtCentre of Plano.

Through vibrant palettes and layered textures, her art invites viewers to reflect, connect, and celebrate creativity.

On view now through October 18.

Read about Kelly's Journey
View the Finding Joy Exhibition

Upcoming exhibitions

Explore all exhibitions at the ArtCentre

Exhibitions
Kelly Steller Hrad: Finding Joy
Sep 6
Kelly Steller Hrad: Finding Joy
For the Love of Art Benefit Exhibition
Oct 25
For the Love of Art Benefit Exhibition
Be the Creator
Dec 6
Be the Creator
View all exhibitions
An evening party on the grounds of the ArtCentre of Plano.

Celebrate your special moments at the historic Saigling House, home of the ArtCentre of Plano

Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the historic Saigling House, home of the ArtCentre of Plano offers a unique and inspiring venue for any occasion. From weddings and corporate events to private parties and community gatherings, our historic home in Haggard Park provides a stunning backdrop for your special moments.

Ready to learn more? Visit our Facility Rental page to explore all the details on how you can host your next event at the ArtCentre of Plano!

Facility Rental Information

The ArtCentre of Plano Online Gallery

Bring original art into your life

Abstract painting in vibrant colors by artist Kelly Hrad
Painting by artist Kavita Doddamane
A composition of red tulips by multimedia artist Marie Renfro

Discover artwork that speaks to your soul and transforms your space. Our collection features stunning creations by talented North Texas artists, each piece bringing its own story, character, and vibrancy to your home, your office, or as a gift.

By choosing a piece, you’re not just adding beauty to your life—you’re also supporting the ArtCentre of Plano’s mission to inspire creativity and connect our community through the arts. Every purchase helps us provide enriching programs, captivating exhibitions, and vital arts education. Find your perfect piece today and bring a touch of inspiration into your world.

Browse the Online Gallery

Above: Kelly Steller Hrad, Tree of Life, 3-dimensional oil on canvas, 36 x 24 inches; Kavita Patil-Doddamane, Divinity, acrylic on canvas - texture and drip technique, 24 x 36 inches; Marie Renfro, Sping-a-Bloom, collage, 15 x 15 inches, framed.