On Saturday, December 14th, 2019 UIMA hosts its annual Gala of the Arts Fundraiser featuring acclaimed jazz musicians Orbert Davis and members of the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic.

Since January 2018, Davis and his ensemble have collaborated with musicians from Chicago’s Chinese, Greek, Mexican, South African and West African immigrant communities, bringing attention to the talents and contributions of immigrants to America and Chicago in particular. These collaborations have resulted in a series of neighborhood performances and World Premiere performances in Millennium Park in the summers of 2018 and 2019.

Inspired by this collaborative process, “The Immigrant Story” will feature Davis and his group alongside Ivan Shmilo, a virtuoso player of the bandura. The performance will not only entertain but also deeply engage you in the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art (UIMA)’s mission to preserve and promote the shared expression of the Ukrainian tradition with jazz and as a uniquely American experience.

Our fundraiser is hosting Lidia Lykhach as the keynote speaker. One of Ukraine’s leading art experts, she is the editor and owner of “Rodovid,” a top art book publisher. Lykhach is the recipient of this year’s UIMA Recognition Award.

We welcome everyone to join us in celebrating “The Immigrant Story.” Cocktail hour starts at 6 pm and Dinner is served at 7 pm. Please visit here for tickets.