Austin's art patrons gathered at Mexic-Arte Museum on Friday night for La Noche del Patronato, a fundraiser for the museum's education programs.

The fun, festive cocktail party featured live screen printing, a silent auction with items ranging from textiles to sculptures and, of course, some beautiful art.

But it wasn't just the celebratory spirit that made this a night to remember. The night also served as the launch of the Mix & Mash Exhibit — now in its fifth year — which was on display with work from local and international artists. Claudia Zapata, curator of the exhibit, said that with the $100-$300 price point, this show is a chance for people to begin — or add to — their modern art collection. "This show opens up horizons," explained Zapata. "This is the kind of show for artists who just need that shot."

On 12-inch by 12-inch canvases donated by Ampersand Art Supply, jury-selected artists are given the opportunity to create whatever they were inspired to make. Those pieces are then priced at $100 each, giving almost anyone the chance to get in the art game.

For this particular show, Zapata asked a handful of artists to create larger works using multiple canvases. While the large-scale works can be purchased in their entirety, folks can also just select individual squares, adding a sense of whimsy to the collection. The art is on display and available for purchase until January 5.

Those catching a glimpse of the future of the art world on Friday included William Jackson, Sandra Rascon, Ben and Delia Sifuentes,Russ Troutman, Brent Ellis, Candy Becker and Meta Hunt.

Also taking in (and taking home!) the collection: Mike Fruzzetti, Jennifer Burkhardt, Frank Cardenas,Stacey Finnerty, Nancy Hoover,Kimmi Selinger, Tanya Ochoa,John Hogg and Vicki-O Eidman.

Members of Austin print shop Industry took part in the screen printing station led by educational coordinator Delilah Knuckley. Also taking in the show were members of Puro Chingon Collective (Zapata and Mexic-Arte production coordinator James Huizar are both members).

With work from artists such as Alexis Herrera, Nancy Hoover, David "Shek" Vega, Jonathan Rebolloso and Celina Garcia (among many), Mix & Mash gives Austinites the opportunity to invest in the next big thing (at a very reasonable price).

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Mix & Mash artwork is on display — and available for purchase — at Mexic-Arte Museum until January 5.