Matters of the art

If you're born a Rockefeller, Vanderbilt or Guggenheim, being a highbrow supporter of the arts is just what you’re supposed to do as a rich person (see also: using finger bowls; having a psychiatrist for your baby; being obsessed with coffee enemas). But what about the rest of us? As a society, we have a collective responsibility to support the creative class, because it gives life meaning (or something). The good news is that this can take many forms, and you don’t have to have a lot of money (or any, even) to do so. Here are a few opportunities around the city this week, moneyed snobbery not necessarily required:

On Friday, May 13, scout the work of the next generation of local artists at Sacramento State University’s annual Art Ball. There will be refreshments and live performances, and exhibits will take place at various galleries and libraries on campus at 6000 J Street from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visit www.al.csus.edu/art/artball.php for more information.

On Saturday, May 14, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., support the city’s budding music virtuosos at the Sac Prep Music Academy Extravaganza, which will take place at its brand-new digs at the E. Claire Raley Studios for the Performing Arts Auditorium (2420 N Street). Students and teachers will be playing the Beatles’ iconic Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart Club Band in its entirety, plus there will be refreshments and a silent auction. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Call (916) 382-2770 or visit http://sacprepmusic.com for more info.

Kickstart your art collection on Thursday, May 19, at the Crocker Art Museum’s Big Names, Small Art event, where big-name artists will have work no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches up for auction starting at $25. Admission to the event is $10-$20 and it will take place at 216 O Street from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visit www.crockerartmuseum.org or call (916) 808-7000 to find out more.

Also on Thursday, the TrueStory: Non-fiction Reading Series & Open Mic moves to its new home at the Warehouse Artist Lofts (1108 R Street). Three featured readers will share their work before the floor is turned over to the audience; the event kicks off at 7 p.m. and tickets are $6 in advance and $10 at the door. Check out www.tellatruestory.com for additional details.