Ashes to Art

Susan Goss, chef-owner of West Town Tavern and Working with the The Architrouve gallery in Chicago, Goss began collecting ashtrays from West Town bars and restaurants to be used in an innovative art exhibition, "Ashes to Art." Chicago artists have created signature works of art using these donated ashtrays. The results of the artists' efforts will be a one-of-a-kind exhibition of 'ashtray art' that will be on display at The Architrouve and West Town Tavern beginning Tuesday, February 19 until Tuesday, February 26. At the close of the exhibit next Tuesday, there will be an "Ashes to Art Auction" from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Architrouve. The auction proceeds will go to Erie Neighborhood House, a community service agency in the West Town area. Chef Susan Goss will provide signature appetizers and libations for both Tuesday evenings at the gallery.

"This is a great opportunity for the West Town area of Chicago to work as a community and contribute to a worthwhile charity," said Susan Goss of West Town Tavern. "We can recycle, rather than toss hundreds of ashtrays!"

For the Architrouve Ashtray auction on February 26, Chef Susan has created a menu of appetizers that reflect the evening's theme and Drew Goss, West Town Tavern's owner/wine director, has selected wines for the evening. The menu includes:

Cold Turkey Canapes with Apple and Pomegranate Seeds

Smoked Pork Butt Biscuits

Bruschetta with Ash-Rind Goat Cheese

Smoked Trout Rings

The Architrouve is an art gallery located in the West Town neighborhood. Its purpose is to promote creativity as reflected in the art and culture of Chicago. The gallery is at 1433 West Chicago Avenue. For more information, call (312) 563-0977, or visit their Web site at www.thearchitrouve.com.

West Town Tavern is located at 1329 W. Chicago Avenue. It is open for dinner Monday through Saturday from 5 until 10 p.m. Please call (312) 666-6175 for reservations. West Town Tavern serves contemporary comfort food in a welcoming neighborhood setting. For more information on the restaurant, please go to www.westtowntavern.com.