The Chicago Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) presented its 8th Annual Art for Life Benefit at Merchandise Mart Oct 11.
The juried event gathered established artists, new emerging talent, art collectors and art buyers and focused on DIFFA’s mission which is aligned with the “Illinois 2030 Get to Zero” initiative. Guests participated in a silent auction (which started a week earlier online), participated in the popular “Off the Wall” section and enjoyed beats by DJ Michael Thomas.
With a multitude of artwork donated by seventy-three artists (some work came from as far away as Bali, Africa, Monaco, and Canada) and with many of the artists in attendance the evening blossomed into a swirling night of conversation, networking, and comradery.
After DIFFA’s fundraising event Dining for Design ended nearly a decade ago, the organization created Art for Life in its place. Each year DIFFA selects a jury panel of highly accomplished interior designers and gallery owners who bring years of industry expertise and genuine commitment to supporting the art world. Each artist is scored, and the top artists are invited to participate in the year’s Art for Life Chicago art auction.
Art for Life Chicago not only creates meaningful opportunities for artists but with all proceeds benefiting DIFFA’s Excellence in Care Grants Programs it also raises essential unrestricted funds for local organizations providing care for those living with and/or impacted by HIV/AIDS.
DIFFA Chicago also raises awareness for HIV/AIDS through sponsorships, annual design events, media and digital outreach, fundraising and local outreach. Among the artists who participated in Art for Life 2025 were Karen Remsen, Candace Rodriguez-Adams, Heyden Minor, Sarah Krepp, Darren Jones, Kevin Obrzut, Isabella Scott, Jean Amour Imanishimwe and many others. Participants Ashley Benton, William Hole, and Alex Droulx were selected as For Life Artist Winners.
Art for Life 2025 sponsors included Cadogan Tate, Freeman’s Hindman, Watson Smith, Stantel, Logan Square Pilates, Leopardo, Luxe Interiors and Design and James Thomas.
