A signature event for the Manatee Education Foundation, the Heart & Soul Gala and Live Art Auction is more than just a fundraiser but also a high school student art competition and scholarship program. The 5th annual Heart & Soul Gala was held January 28, 2012 at the Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. This always exciting event is unique in its design to Manatee County. Students create artwork in their classes. The artwork is submitted to the Foundation, professionally juried and then the Top 25 selections are sold in an energetic live auction. Proceeds of this multi-faceted event benefit the art departments and students of the
School District of Manatee County.

Photography by Arielle Monaghan.