Contributing artists donate anywhere from 75 to 100 percent of the proceeds of the final sale price of their artwork. And that can be quite substantial.
“Last year we had a surprise bidding war over a watercolor by John Emery that sold for a record-breaking $6,000,” said DVAC executive director Eva Buttacavoli.
There will be 116 artists contributing works in various media: paintings, prints, sculpture, glass, jewelry, photography, fabric art, and more. Prices vary as well. Opening bids range from $50 for Debbie Hicks’ whimsical acrylic/ink “Thoughts of a Frog,” to $900 for J. D. Claffey’s sculpture, “The Falls,” and John Emery’s watercolor construction, “Summer Trinity.” The most highly anticipated sale this year will be for Jon Barlow Hudson’s sculpture, “Uncarved Block, Carrara Bardiglio,” with an opening bid of $2,700.
A local arts overview
“The DVAC Art Auction is one way in which we showcase, promote and celebrate the vast talent of our region’s numerous artists, “said Buttacavoli. “This much-anticipated event draws over 700 influential tastemakers, young professionals, community leaders and philanthropic donors who truly believe art elevates our daily lives. Attendees find themselves immersed in the arts community, literally, as they are surrounded by impressive and inspired works from local artists.”
Some of Dayton’s most notable artists are involved in this year’s gala: Dave Ackels, Zach Armstrong, Jon Barlow Hudson, Julie Beyer, Jane Dippold, Amy Deal, Mike Elsass, John Emery, Katherine Kadish, Michealyn Mychalec, Ray Must, Amy Powell, Francis Schanberger and Terry Welker, among others. The live auction begins at 7:30 p.m. and is sponsored by Dayton Power & Light Co. It features Doug Sorrell as the auctioneer.
“The Live Auction is almost as much fun to watch as it is to participate,” said Buttacavoli.
>> MORE ARTS NEWS: A local artist is getting recognition in NYC
Are you’re feeling lucky? There is a new Grand Prize Raffle this year with a fancy-sounding name, “Le Bon Temps Rouler — The Art of Jazz, New Orleans Style.”
The winner will receive a three-night stay in New Orleans, roundtrip airfare for two, brunch, dinner, and two tickets to Preservation Jazz Hall. Raffle tickets will be available on DVAC’s website and at the event for $20 each or six for $100.
Music and immersive arts
The Art Auction will also feature live music by Puzzle of Light, deluxe hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar. Referring to Puzzle of Light, also up for bids will be “The Art of Sound,” a private concert experience with Michael and Sandy Bashaw. Two other immersive art experiences will be offered: “The Art of Glass” hands-on glassblowing instruction with Jim DeLange in his studio, and “The Art of Clay,” a hands-on pottery demonstration and Persian luncheon with Naysan Mcllhargey.
You can also view some of the works up for auction on the DVAC website: daytonvisualarts.org.
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: DVAC Art Auction
WHEN: 6-9 p.m. Friday, April 28
WHERE: David H. Ponitz Center, Sinclair Community College
COST: $50/members; $65/non-members; $75/door
MORE INFO: 937-224-3822, daytonvisualarts.org
About the Author