'Racing for COMU' Honors Mason and Mary Lu Lampton with a Derby Party to Benefit the Columbus Museum

Hold your horses! There's a new arts benefit in town.

On May 3, the Columbus Museum will host their new 'Racing for COMU' event. The Derby-themed party's tickets go on sale next week, and all proceeds will go toward operational costs for the Museum.

We corresponded with Elizabeth Cliatt and Landy Cartledge, event co-chairs and owners of Highland Galerie, to get the scoop on this exciting event. Read on to learn more!

Q: Racing for COMU is being given in honor of Mason and Mary Lu Lampton. Can you speak about their importance to the Museum and Board?

A: Upon returning to Columbus in 1977, Mary Lu immediately immersed herself within the community and more specifically in the Columbus Museum (COMU). She joined the Museum’s Guild and went on to become a long-standing member of the COMU Board of Directors, serving as Board President. Her dedication to advocating for the Museum and its mission is remarkable. Mary Lu has devoted countless hours to enriching both the institution's collection and the experiences of all who visit.

Additionally, it is through Mason's vision and leadership that the Steeplechase at Callaway has become a cornerstone in the region's arts scene. The annual event has raised millions for the arts in our region, with COMU as a proud beneficiary.

Mary Lu and Mason are more than deserving honorees of this year’s event, as their unwavering commitment and passion for the arts have profoundly impacted our community and continue to inspire others.

Q: What are you most looking forward to about this event? What can guests expect?

A: Enjoying a fun themed evening in our community, with art at the forefront and celebrating such a wonderful couple!

Guests can expect an evening of Derby fun! With the race taking place at 6:45 PM, arrive on time to place your bets. Jamie Keating will bring his creative flair to a Derby-inspired menu. From bourbon to live music, this is a night you won’t want to miss!

Q: Is this a benefit for the Museum? How will funds be utilized?

A: Funds raised from this event will go directly to supporting operations, enabling COMU to provide access and programming for everyone in the community—engaging educational programs, preserve and expand its collections, and remain open and free to all visitors.

By supporting this fundraiser, guests are playing a crucial role in sustaining the Museum’s mission, ensuring that it can continue bringing American art and regional history to life for everyone in the Chattahoochee Valley.

Q: As local arts professionals yourselves and owners of the celebrated Highland Galerie, why did you become involved as event chairs for Racing for COMU?

A: We were honored to be approached by the Museum’s staff and its Board of Trustees to serve in this role. It has been so much fun working on this meaningful event with staff, committee members, and the Lampton Family.

We feel that it is vital for arts organizations to collaborate and stand together. To put it simply, we are far better together than apart.