The proceeds from the gala will be put toward O’Neal Invests — a fund focused on high-priority research efforts.The advisory board of the University of Alabama at Birmingham O’Neal Cancer Center will host the 41st annual ArtBLINK Gala on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the Kirklin Clinic of UAB Hospital.
The proceeds from the gala will be put toward O’Neal Invests — a fund focused on high-priority research efforts. The fund supports cutting-edge research that could lead to groundbreaking discoveries in the field of cancer research.
ArtBLINK is a vibrant community gathering that showcases live painting by talented local artists. The celebration is accompanied by live music and delicious food.
Each year, the center celebrates individuals who serve as exceptional ambassadors in the cancer community. Tricia Kirk and Neillie Butler, a mother-daughter duo, will be this year’s honorees in recognition of their extraordinary courage and advocacy in the fight against cancer.
Butler was diagnosed with desmoid sarcoma at age 18 during her freshman year of college. With the support of her family and friends, and under the care of Martin Heslin, M.D., a surgical oncologist at UAB, she faced her diagnosis with determination. Today, Butler is a successful entrepreneur, married to her husband and raising three children.
More than two years ago, Kirk received her own cancer diagnosis and is currently undergoing treatment at the O’Neal Cancer Center. Known for her strength and grace, Kirk is supported by her devoted family and a wide circle of friends. She is a beloved figure in Birmingham, having served for many years as executive director of The Exceptional Foundation, where her leadership and compassion left a lasting legacy. This year’s featured artwork for the ArtBLINK Gala was created by John Miller, a participant at The Exceptional Foundation and a close friend of Kirk’s.
The O’Neal Cancer Center is a national leader in research and patient care. The center’s “Comprehensive” designation, awarded by the National Cancer Institute, is held by only 57 institutions in the country. UAB’s cancer program was one of the first eight comprehensive cancer centers in the United States and has held this designation for the past 50 years.
Tickets are on sale now. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit artblink.org.