ZEST Raises Over $92,000 for Community Art and Music Programs—Celebrating a Night of Creativity, Connection, and Generosity
April 11, 2025
MISSOULA, MT — The Zootown Arts Community Center (ZACC) is thrilled to announce that ZEST and the Mini Show Art Auction raised just over $92,000 in support of Missoula’s non-profit community arts center. The one-night celebration of art, music, and community brought hundreds of supporters together for an unforgettable evening—and thanks to the incredible generosity of art buyers, attendees, sponsors, Mini Show artists and donors, we are already putting those funds to work.
- Paid 138 Artists
- Revenue paid to Artists: $17,778.35
- Revenue paid to small businesses: $19,492.87
“We are beyond grateful to everyone who showed up to make ZEST such a joyful and meaningful success,” said ZACC Executive Director Sarah Justice. “This event is a reflection of what happens when artists, performers, and a community of supporters come together around the shared belief that the arts should be within reach for all.”
A portion of the funds raised went directly to participating artists and performers, honoring their creativity, labor, and vital role in making ZEST such a dynamic celebration. The remaining proceeds will help sustain ZACC’s year-round arts programming, including ZACC Tracks, our newest initiative bringing free afterschool art and music education to Montana schools in rural and Indigenous communities.
ZEST featured an extraordinary lineup of talent, with live performances by Deaf Charlie, hosted by Chris Fairbanks and co-host Sunah Bilsted, with dance by Ballet Beyond Borders and SpecialFX, comedy by Thomas McClure, curated theatre by the stars of Missoula Children’s Theatre, salsa music from John Roberts y Pan Blanco, and a late-night set from DJ Auntie E. Attendees also enjoyed large-scale interactive inflatable art by Jason Cox, a silverpoint quick-finish by featured artist Louis Still Smoking and live screen printing, tattoos, haircuts, and a Mini Desk Concert-style basement jam.
We are deeply grateful to all who made this amazing night possible, especially event sponsors, including Providence St. Patrick Hospital, Top Hat Lounge, High Road, Groove, the Good Food Store and Warm Springs Productions. Biga Pizza, Big Dipper, Masala, and Bernices Bakery kept us fueled with incredible food throughout the evening, and Bitterroot Flower Shop added to the colorful festive atmosphere.
From the bottom of our hearts—thank you, Missoula. Your support allows us to continue our mission to connect our community through accessible, inclusive, and inspiring arts experiences.
