Andersonville Arts Weekend art sales proceeds to support HIV-affected families

According to internationally renowned abstract artist Susan Olmetti, one must only step forward into the 2009 Andersonville Arts Weekend to step into the company of unconventional characters housed in an outlying charismatic Chicago suburb - a neighborhood established by immigrant Swedish farmers in the mid-1800s and currently inhabited by more than 75 locally owned, independent businesses and a significant gay and lesbian community.

The neighborhood is well-suited as a backdrop for SIR Spa - Chicago's premier day spa catering exclusively to men, and for the spa's association with Olmetti, whose striking works are engaged as SIR Spa's signature showcase during the Oct. 2-4 weekend.

During the Arts weekend, over 25 of Olmetti's works and installations will be featured at SIR Spa. Proceeds from art sales will benefit the Chicago House, in support pf the mission of Chicago House and Social Service Agency to provide housing and supportive services to HIV-affected families and individuals who may also be impacted by poverty, homelessness, substance abuse, and mental illness.

"Life provides so many opportunities to help others - now more than nearly any other time," said Olmetti. "I've enjoyed the support of SIR Spa and am grateful for the chance to pass it on."

During the reception, the public is invited to consider the artist's intricate detailed creations up close and discuss details, or make a purchase to support Chicago House.

An exclusive screening of a documentary film featuring GLBT activist and Stonewall veteran "King" Storme DeLaverie created by New York-based famed filmmaker and photographer Sam Bassett will be presented.

www.andersonville.org