Recent History – 2001
March 29, 2001
DAWSON CREEK — After 20 years, the annual art auction is still going strong. The next edition of the annual event will be held Friday, April 6 at the George Dawson Inn, 7 p.m. start.
The auction began on a fairly small scale, but has grown significantly over the years according to Dawson Creek Art Gallery manager Ellen Corea, to the point where it must be limited to 60 pieces.
“I think that what’s happened is that the art auction has become a showcase for artists’ work. They really take pride in the work they put in the auction and it allows them extra promotion,” she said.
It’s also become something of a way for local artists to acknowledge the help they’ve received over the years.
“Just generally the art gallery has been a real vehicle for helping artists develop their skills and work,” Corea said.
Corea hopes to see between $15,000 and $17,000 raised. It’s the major fundraiser for the gallery, which earns about 90 per cent of its budget on its own.
After years of tweaking and adjustments, Corea believes that the event has reached the point where no more changes are needed. There won’t be a dinner, but there will be hor d’oeuvres and plenty of wine.
“It’s a social evening. We make sure everyone has a good time,” Corea said.
Some of the works that will be put up for bid can be seen at Picture It, Lake View Credit Union, and Dawson Mall.
Tickets are available at the art gallery, Picture It, and Turn the Page Bookstore.