“Iron Chef” for Artists: Armory Art Center Fundraiser Turns Up the Heat

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Art Throwdown will feature friendly competition among local artists

November 19, 2025 (WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) — Put away your tux and gown. The Armory Art Center’s annual fundraiser, Art Throwdown, will be one of Palm Beach County’s liveliest parties of the year. The event takes place on Feb. 6, 2026 from 6 to 9:30 p.m.

Part performance and part art sale, four artists will go head-to-head to produce creative and compelling artwork within a 90-minute challenge. The event is chaired by Linda Silpe and Lynn Feld.

The competition involves a shared supply table and a “mystery box” of unusual materials—forcing artists to be resourceful and innovative as the clock ticks. Guests can mix and mingle while enjoying delicious sips, hearty bites, live entertainment, and a silent auction during the competition. Attendees will also have the chance to vote for the winner by applause. 

After the Throwdown, all artworks will go up for live auction, and the winning artist will receive a solo exhibition at the Armory.

“Art Throwdown is like Iron Chef, but for artists,” said Jill Brown, Armory Art Center CEO. “This event is a fun way to support the Armory’s work in art education and celebrate working artists.”

Attendees can also view the Annual Instructor and Student Exhibition and Art Sale on display Jan. 12 – March 6, 2026. The exhibition celebrates works created throughout the year by the organization’s prestigious instructors and student artists. 

Art Throwdown tickets are $250 per person. Advance purchase recommended; limited tickets at the door. Proceeds support the Armory’s art classes and workshops, youth art programs, and art exhibitions.

The Armory is now accepting applications from artists who want to compete in the Throwdown. Sponsorships are also still available. To apply or become a sponsor, visit armoryart.org.

If You Go (Calendar Item)

Who: Armory Art Center

What: Art Throwdown

When: Friday, February 6, 2026 (6-9:30 p.m.)

Where: Armory Art Center (811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401)

Tickets: $250/person advance (portion of the ticket is tax deductible)

Attire: Put your gown and tux away; come casual and ready to have fun

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About the Armory Art Center

Having served the community since 1986, the Armory Art Center’s art school, galleries, and events provide creative opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts to enhance their lives. The mission of the Armory Art Center is to inspire the creation and experience of art and its vision is to be the leading community resource for arts education. Serving over 12,000 visitors and about 3,000 students annually, the Armory Art Center offers 160 courses per term in six terms throughout the year to students of all ages and skill levels, with flexible class times and sessions that work for any schedule. Classes in drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, fiber & textiles, ceramics, sculpture, and welding are held in 12 state-of-the-art studios. The Armory hosts up to eight annual exhibitions in three galleries. Exhibitions and special events are open to the public.

The Armory is a proud recipient of several awards in recent years, including the Best of Florida Awards (2025 Regional Art Classes & Workshops), The Palm Beach Post’s Best of Palm Beach County (2022 Best Art Gallery), Chamber of Commerce of The Palm Beaches (2021 Nonprofit of the Year), The Flamingos: Florida Weekly’s Best Awards (2021 Best Place to Create Art), the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s Muse Awards (2020 Legacy Award) and more.For information, visit armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776. The Armory Art Center is located at 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401.