An impressive list of Pittsburgh Center for the Arts Artist of the Year honorees gathered Aug. 31 at the center to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the awards. Part of the evening was made possible by their generous donations of works of art, which were on view during the month of August. The exhibition closed with a bang -- of the gavel, that is. Sam Berkovitz of Concept Art Gallery served as auctioneer for the evening, which was a benefit to help PCA fund honoraria for future winners.

The event began with cocktails and a preview of the works on display in the gallery. A wonderful grilled salmon supper prepared by Tallulah's catering was nearly eclipsed by its perfect almond torte, and then it was time to bid, early and often.

Past Artist of the Year winners in the crowd included 2009 recipient Tim Kaulen, Bob Qualters with Joanne, Tony Buba with Jan McMannis, James Duesing, Delanie Jenkins with Andy English, Clayton Merrell, Susanne Slavick with Andrew Johnson, Connie Merriman, and the 2010 honoree, Brian Dean Richmond. Also on hand were PCA executive director Charlie Humphrey and director Laura Domencic, along with Loretta Stanish and Joy Sato, who planned the affair.

Among the guests mingling on the terrace were PCA board chair Seth Rosenberg with Rebecca King, Joe Seamans, Jim Abraham, Russ Kemerer and Beth Wainwright, Linda Dickerson, Ann and Marty Davis, Lynn and Joe Smith, Nanette Livadas and Sheldon Goettel, Adrienne Heinrich, Lila Hirsch Brody, Kathleen Zimbicki, Paula Garrick Klein, Tina Brewer, Laura Horner and more.