The aesthetic has been called “grandma graffiti” — a kind of street art that uses knitting needles and yarn instead of spray cans and stencils to impose a new visual statement on a public environment. This soft subversive act often involves a good measure of humor and irony.

This week, the Farmington Valley Arts Center found itself “victimized” by studio artists gone rogue. (Or maybe they just thought those trees looked a little chilly and ought to put on a sweater.)

It was a dark and stormy night.

But that did not stop us from lighting up the night with great friends, rockin’ music, swell swing dancing, delicious food and all kinds of cheer as we partied the evening away to support the Farmington Valley Arts Center.

Thanks to everyone who attended our party of the year — “Swing for the Arts” — held Friday, Oct. 19th at the beautiful Belle Terrace at Avon Old Farms. Fun memories of the event will carry on, as emcee and auctioneer, ESPN broadcaster Bob Ley, sent several lucky guests home with wonderful things to anticipate — such as a Red Sox game, a Springsteen Concert, a fishing trip, a Vermont getaway weekend, and a unique piece of art for the home. Winners of the silent auction went home with original artworks, fine wine, gift certificates to local restaurants, and other very special gifts. The Street Vipers proved that even legal eagles can let loose and rock the house with terrific dance music that had us all swinging — and Prudence Sloane and Joel Silvestro were our own dancing stars.

The Arts Center would like to honor the generosity of all of the sponsors, donors, supporters and friends who made the evening a swinging success.

As the beautiful fall foliage now peaks and begins to fade,  the Arts Center will continue to provide light and warmth and inspiration as the months get darker and stormier here in New England.  We hope you will all join us when the holiday season kicks off with our Candlelight 2012 opening on November 16th!