The brochures are in the mail, and the hosts and hostesses are gearing up for the 2011 Appetite for Art fundraising program to benefit the Arts Council of Moore County.

The Appetite for Art program features parties hosted by generous individuals and businesses throughout the community. With prices ranging from $15 to $100 a person, party-goers can choose to attend an event according to their own interests and help raise money in support of the Arts Council.

“We are so grateful to everyone in the community who supports this fundraising effort for the arts,” says Connie Petrillo, chair of the Appetite for Art Committee. “I would especially like to thank Lucille and Jim Buck for hosting a Chinese New Year party in early February; Jean Peters for hosting a New Orleans-style dinner prior to the Heart ’n’ Soul of Jazz concerts; Myrna and Bob Spencer for another sold-out poker party; and Sue and Gary Southard for hosting a dinner prior to the Capitol Steps concert in March.”

Even though some of the parties are full, there are still plenty of other exciting events scheduled for the remainder of the year, including events where children are welcome.

“My 10 Favorite Chagall Artworks” at the Campbell House Galleries on Feb. 27 — Enjoy a new lecture and slide presentation given by Vivian R. Jacobson, a Chagall expert. After the lecture, there will be wine and cheese, a signing of Jacobson’s book, “Sharing Chagall: A Memoir,” and a question-and-answer period.

“A Golf Lesson with Eric Alpenfels” at the Pinehurst Golf Academy on April 7 — Sign up your foursome for instruction from a Class A PGA professional who is involved in daily instruction with both amateurs and professionals. Golf Magazine has recognized Alpenfels as one of the “Top 100 Teachers in America” and Golf Digest as one of “America’s 50 Greatest Teachers.”

“Mother and Daughter Tea Party” at the Campbell House on April 16 — Hosted by Lady Bedford’s Tea Parlour & Gift Shoppe of Pinehurst, this afternoon tea party is designed especially for mothers and daughters. Attendees will learn all about this elegant and social custom while enjoying scones, cupcakes, candies, small sandwiches, and of course, tea.

“Munch with the Bunco Bunch” at the home of Esther Sweeting on May 5 — All levels of players, including beginners, are welcome to an afternoon of bunco, heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine, coffee and dessert.

“Brighten Up for Spring” at the Campbell House on May 9 — Enjoy an afternoon with professional floral designer Cookie Kremer as she demonstrates various ways to beautify your home using springtime plants and flowers from your garden. Light refreshments will be served.

“In the Lair of the Artist II” at the home of Meridith Martens and Howard Schubert on May 15 — Back by popular demand, this event offers attendees good food and a personal look at the home and studio of professional artist Meridith Martens and her “humble studio assistant,” Howard Schubert. Each guest will receive a ready-to-frame print signed by the artist.

“Tennis ’n’ Tartes VI” at the Pinehurst Country Club Tennis Center on May 17 — Be part of a fun-filled day playing in a round-robin tennis tournament followed by an elegant luncheon buffet on the club’s patio. Up for grabs are tournament prizes and door prizes.

“Afternoon in Clay” at the home of Ben and LoriAnn Owen on Aug. 21 — Spend an afternoon with master potter Ben Owen III, his wife, LoriAnn, and their children and try your hand at the potters’ wheel, at painting a pot, or exploring other creative ideas in clay. There will also be refreshments, activities and play for kids, and a tour of the Owen pottery and art collection.

“Clowning Around!” on Sept. 11 — Professional clowns will entertain both little and big youngsters with tricks, balloon animals, group singing, and storytelling. Punch, cookies, popcorn, and other surprises will be served.

“The Fresh Market Wine Gala” at The Fresh Market of Southern Pines on Sept. 20 — The Fresh Market will once again close its doors for a special wine-tasting gala. The wine will be accompanied by heavy hors d’oeuvres and a food-only table serving boneless prime rib and shrimp cocktail. Tasting notes will be available for the evening’s sampled wines along with discount coupons for future visits.

“Wrap It Up!” at the Campbell House Galleries on Dec. 7-8 — Let us help you get your holiday shopping “wrapped up.” Professional gift wrappers will wrap that perfect gift to match the personality of the recipient. Only special paper and hand-made bows will be used. While the elves are busy wrapping, you can enjoy cookies, hot cider, and coffee, or, you can drop off your gifts and pick them up at your convenience.

As Moore County’s leader in cultural planning and programming, the Arts Council provides arts programs and services for the enjoyment, enrichment, and education of Moore County residents of all ages. The Arts Council’s youth programs include the Young People’s Fine Arts Festival, the annual visit of the Missoula Children’s Theatre which allows over 50 children to explore the magic of theater, and a summer theater camp. Other programs include monthly art exhibits at the Campbell House Galleries in Southern Pines, the Fine Arts Festival in August, the Classical Concert Series at the Sunrise Theater, and the popular ARTours program to near and far away art destinations.

To make a reservation for one or more of the Appetite for Art 2011 parties or to host a party in 2011 or 2012, contact the Arts Council of Moore County at 692-4356.