Social Scene

Sitar Arts Center Celebrates Its Students’ Work at the Corcoran Gallery of Art

By Mary Bird • July 26, 2011 0 1711

Ruben Toldeo, Isabel Toledo, Maureen Dwyer (Sitar Arts Center Executive Director), Mora Lavin, Mrs. Veronica Valencia-Sarukhan, The Mexican Ambassador to the United States, Arturo Sarukhan | John Woo

On Apr. 6, the Sitar Arts Center in Adams Morgan, a multidisciplinary arts education haven for children and youth predominantly from low-income households in Washington, DC, hosted is annual celebration and benefit at The Corcoran Gallery of Art. Mexican Ambassador Arturo Sarukhan and Veronica Valencia-Sarukhan were honorary diplomatic hosts. The event began with cocktails and Mexican inspired fare from Occasions Caterers followed by a student showcase and program honoring artist Ruben Toledo and his wife, fashion designer Isabel, who created First Lady Michelle Obama’s inaugural outfit. One young participant called Sitar “a place where I trust everyone.” Sitar uses arts for “healthy human connections.” The evening concluded with a dessert reception and silent auction.

: Ruben Toldeo, Isabel Toledo, Maureen Dwyer (Sitar Arts Center Executive Director), Mora Lavin, Mrs. Veronica Valencia-Sarukhan, The Mexican Ambassador to the United States, Arturo Sarukhan | John Woo