Highly anticipated art auction showcases the work of Passages clients, raising funds for ongoing art program
(Talk of the Town artwork provided) The piece above, a cooperative effort of two artists, both Passages Inc. clients, Than Boutelle and Amber Coverstone, is one of more than 60 pieces that will be available at the upcoming Paintings, Pickles & Patrick art auction fundraiser to support the Passages Inc.'s art program.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Creative self-expression through art is a wonderful thing. Artwork in various forms can be a vehicle to express emotions, mood and feeling.
Disabled adults through Passages Inc. enjoy regular opportunities to express their creativity and art skills through the organization's art program. Truly, Passages Inc. has some amazingly talented artists who excell in the areas of painting, drawing and photography.
Noticing these awe-inspiring works of art, members of a volunteer committee along with Passages Inc. president Tom O'Neill began planning an event to showcawse the art. With the participating of the artists, it was decided that Passages Inc. would plan a large scale public auction event as a means of providing continuous funding to maintain the art program even in lean years when it might be tempting to reserve vital funds for more pressing client needs like housing or care.
Under the direction of Passages Inc. employee Candy Pease, the art program has been up and running for several years. There have been small scale art auctions in the past, but the upcoming event will likely top them all in scale and, hopefully, funds raised for the program.
Paintings, Pickles and Patrick is slated for Thursday, March 17, 2011, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in the Touchstone Energy Room at Northeastern REMC, located in the Park 30 business park.
The St. Patrick's Day event will feature more than 60 pieces of artwork by Passages Inc. clients -- each piece hand selected by volunteers Mike DeFreeuw and September McConnell. Many pieces have been framed and matted to be on display during the event. Attendees will have the opportunity to place bids and,
hopefully, take home a piece of artwork.
According to Pease, many of the artists whose pieces will be available for sale will be in attendance at the auction as well, each feeling a great sense of pride in their work. In all, 16 artists will have their work showcased in this event.
Proceeds from the sale of the art will ensure Passages' art program continues in perpetuity. All purchases above the opening bid price will be tax deductible, offering buyers an additional incentive to support the program and to purchase some amazing pieces of artwork.
Heavy hors d' oeuvres will be prepared by Kim Oddou of Pickles Cafe in Dunfee, including a delectable assortment of Irish themed treats.
"If you cannot attend, we will be accepting the donation of funds or art supplies here at the Passages office," said Tammy Nickolson of Passages. Additionally, Nickolson said her office would be willing to take proxy bids for anyone interested in bidding on the artwork, but who may be unable to attend the art auction.
Admission to the art auction is free, however, reservations are requested by March 14. To RSVP, call 244-7688 or email digney@passagesinc.org