Soroptimist International of Dixon hosted its annual Art Uncorked fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at the American Legion Hall, 1305 N. First St. The art and wine event featured work by 20 local and regional artists, along with wine, mocktails and appetizers for $45 per person. Photo courtesy of Soroptimist International of Dixon

DIXON, CA (MPG) – Soroptimist International of Dixon hosted its annual Art Uncorked fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at the American Legion Hall, 1305 N. First St.

The art and wine event featured work by 20 local and regional artists, along with wine, mocktails and appetizers for $45 per person.

Barbara Rigdon, president of Soroptimist International of Dixon, said the event was created three years ago as the organization explored alternative fundraising ideas.

“While exploring alternative fundraising ideas, we realized there was a wealth of artistic talent within our community and its surroundings, including young women and girls,” said Rigdon. “We wanted to create an opportunity to raise awareness of this talent and integrate it into our fundraising efforts.”

According to Rigdon, the event has grown steadily and continues to draw interest from artists and attendees.

This year’s showcase includes artwork across multiple media, including photography, woodworking, jewelry, guitars and ukuleles, art animation, decoupage furnishings and sound bells made from scuba tanks.

“The selection process is determined by the type of art to ensure a diverse range,” said Rigdon. “We connect with the community, local colleges, art clubs and rely on word of mouth, and so far, we have successfully included all the artists who applied, preserving the variety and showcasing incredible talent.”

Rigdon said one of the goals for this year’s Art Uncorked was to expand both participation and artistic offerings. The event increased to 20 artists from 16 last year and includes several new creative styles.

Among the featured participants is local craftsman James Stevens, known for making and repairing guitars and ukuleles in Dixon.

“We are fortunate to have James Stevens, an incredible maker and repairer of guitars and ukuleles, right here in Dixon,” said Rigdon. “It’s truly amazing to witness his craftsmanship and engage in conversation with him to discover how everything is created.”

In addition to expanded artist participation, this year’s event includes a landscape photographer, specialty handmade wearables and accessories, and additional sound bell pieces fashioned from scuba tanks.

This year’s showcase includes artwork across multiple media, including photography, woodworking, jewelry, guitars and ukuleles, art animation, decoupage furnishings and sound bells made from scuba tanks. Photo courtesy of Soroptimist International of Dixon

Funds raised from Art Uncorked will support the organization’s scholarship and awards program, as well as broader community outreach efforts.

“Our mission is to empower women and girls with access to education and training needed to achieve success,” said Rigdon. “Our outreach extends beyond that, and our funds are used for other causes such as school support, women’s shelter, food banks and meals to those in need and more.”

Attendance was similar to the 2025 event, which Rigdon said was impacted by a competitive schedule of February events. Organizers set a fundraising goal of $5,000.

Rigdon said organizing the event involves coordinating multiple components, including budgeting and securing donations.

“As with any event, there are numerous components to manage, including staying on budget and getting donations; so, it’s essential to stay organized,” she said. “More difficult is effectively conveying and describing the event to spark interest and gather interest from as many as possible.”

Rigdon credited the participating artists, donors and organizing committee for making the event possible, including Kristina Wiley, Patti Crotzer, Karen Walker and Jamie Meville.

“They not only create stunning art but are also incredibly genuine in their interactions with all the attendees,” she said of the artists. She also thanked donors who helped provide charcuterie appetizer cups and PIP for the wine selection.

Funds raised from Art Uncorked will support the organization’s scholarship and awards program, as well as broader community outreach efforts. Photo courtesy of Soroptimist International of Dixon

The organization’s upcoming fundraisers include a bingo event March 18, and its annual “Swing for a Cause” golf tournament scheduled for April 10.

For more information, visit si-dixon.org. or email [email protected].