In Las Vegas? Looking for something unique to do? Visit the Portnoy Gallery for a WAM – Wine, Art, and Music Event. Held the second Tuesday evening of the month from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m., these events offer attendees a chance to browse the amazing caricatures that well known artist Neal Portnoy creates and to enjoy the songs and music of a rotation of talented local performers. Combine that with small bites, liquid refreshments, and perhaps a bit of art education in an up close and personal experience.
I’ve been privileged to enjoy many of these WAM evenings. Each month, Neal honors people by “Portnoying” them and inducting them onto the Wall of Honor in a brief entertaining ceremony. “Portnoying” refers to the unique caricatures that the artist creates.
The Wall of Honor dominates the entrance to the gallery. This consists of small sketches of well known Las Vegas celebrities, local performers, sports figures, political figures such as Mayor Carolyn Goodman and other notables. I am proud to say that my caricatured likeness appears on the Portnoy Wall of Honor.
December 10th WAM
The December 10th WAM will honor local entertainers Steve Dunham and Patty Powers. The $20 admission includes wine samples from the Pine Hollow Winery and entertainment by Patty Powers and Dave Marinelli.
Some of Neal’s work is not what I would label traditional, but is certainly popular. The Las Vegas-based illustrator’s art creations have appeared in the Cooperstown Baseball Hall of Fame, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, the Las Vegas Review Journal, and numerous sports and entertainment venues nationwide.
Illustrator to the Stars
Neal is know as the “Illustrator to the Stars.” Everyone from Elvis to Elton to Sinatra, and Leno, can be found on the walls of the gallery. You’ll recognize them as you smile at Neal’s interpretations. The gallery showcases more than 600 pieces of his impressive works.
But wait — there’s more. All of his work is done with felt tip pens! He has more than 3,000 markers. Hard to believe, but I can attest to it having seen him in action.
Personal Keepsakes
In addition to creating his art work centered on well-known celebrities, the artist has a thriving business creating hang on the wall personal keepsakes for customers and collectors. Plus, in a convention city like Las Vegas, setting Neal up in a booth is guaranteed to bring traffic as Neal draws and shares his highly entertaining comments with onlookers.
All of this is in partnership with his wife Dorothy Portnoy, the Gallery Director. Each WAM event supports the Tyler Robinson Foundation . The mission of the foundation is to strengthen families financially and emotionally by offsetting out-of-pocket life expenses as they cope with the tragedy of a pediatric cancer diagnosis. Check out the next WAM event. Support a worthwhile charity and enjoy Wine, Art and Music at the monthly WAM events.
The gallery is located north of the Las Vegas strip. For information, check out Portnoy Gallery.
Article by Dianne Davis and Burt Davis
Splash Magazines
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