Erotic Art Show raises $4,300 for HIV testing at D.A.P.

(PALM SPRINGS, CA – March 5, 2010)

The Eighth Annual Erotic Art Expo and Silent Auction, held February 4-15 at the Tool Shed, benefited continued free and confidential HIV testing at Desert AIDS Project.

“When we heard that D.A.P. had lost so much state funding when the current budget was passed, I knew we had to do something to help out,” said Dennis Cramer, who has organized this event since its inception. “The $4,300 raised by this show has been donated specifically to help D.A.P. keep their commitment to free and confidential HIV testing.”

The works of more than 40 artists, including Tom Bianchi and Keith Haring, were made available for silent auction bidding throughout the run of the show at the bar, located at 600 E. Sunny Dunes Road in Palm Springs. Most of the artists, including 15 who were participating for the first time, attended the popular Artist Meet & Greet on the afternoon of February 13. Bidding ended at the closing night reception on February 15.

“We are so pleased to be able to help Dennis bring this show to the community,” said Chris Rees, owner of the Tool Shed. “In fact, we’re continuing our support of D.A.P. – this time for their client dental clinic – on Saturday, April 3. We’ll be having a Stud Auction, hosted by our very own Mr. Tool Shed, Chris Bates. We hope everyone will come out for it.”

Desert AIDS Project is the organization in our community where people living with HIV and AIDS can receive comprehensive support, including medical and dental care, case management, and social services. D.A.P. also offers free and confidential HIV testing at a number of locations throughout the communities it serves. For more information call 760-323-2118.