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ARTini, Allied Arts’ annual benefit, lands in Oklahoma City on Saturday, May 2 — a James Bond–themed evening of cocktails, music and bidding that aims to widen access to arts education across the state. The fundraiser’s mix of spectacle and philanthropy matters because the proceeds directly support programs in classrooms and communities that otherwise lack arts resources.
What the evening will look like
The event pairs a curated cocktail experience with a live art auction and DJ-driven entertainment, creating a social atmosphere intended to be both stylish and welcoming. Organizers encourage attendees to lean into this year’s theme, Shaken, not stirred, with black-tie attire that allows for playful personal touches.
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Co-chairs Mason Archer Maidt and Kenton Shaw say the goal is a polished party that still feels relaxed — part tasting, part gallery night, part dance floor. They emphasize the event’s role as a fundraiser first, but one that people enjoy attending even if they are not regular donors.
- Date: Saturday, May 2
- Time: 7 p.m.–11 p.m.
- Ticket price: $150
- More info / tickets: artiniokc.com
Why this fundraiser matters
Allied Arts channels proceeds from ARTini into grants and programming that reach schools, nonprofit groups and underserved neighborhoods across Oklahoma. Organizers describe the funding as a practical way to expand youth access to visual and performing arts — opportunities that research links to improved academic and social outcomes.
That practical impact is central to the event’s pitch: it’s not just a night out, but a funding engine that supports classroom projects, workshops and local artists who deliver instruction. Allied Arts officials say these grants help remove barriers for communities with limited budgets for cultural programs.
Attendance and ambitions
What began as an evening aimed primarily at younger professionals has broadened into an intergenerational crowd of collectors, artists and supporters. Last year’s ARTini drew about 800 guests; organizers are planning for roughly 900 this year and hope to build further momentum.
“Our aim is steady growth — more attendees, more dollars directed to arts education,” one co-chair said, noting the dual challenge of keeping the party fresh while maximizing fundraising results.
For readers interested in attending or tracking how funds are used, details and ticketing are listed at artiniokc.com. The event’s combination of entertainment and mission underscores a familiar lesson for cultural nonprofits: well-executed social events can translate into meaningful public benefit.
