Vermont Business Magazine For the first time ever, Burlington City Arts moved its annual art auction online—and it was a resounding success. Anticipated to draw in about $30,000, the event raised over $63,000, returning $22,000 to participating artists and generating $41,000 for BCA’s arts-based learning programs.
“We are thrilled to announce that this was our most successful auction yet,” said Doreen Kraft, Burlington City Arts' Executive Director. “Not only did we receive an incredible response from our community, with participants from all over the country bidding on the work of Vermont artists, we also received feedback from the artist community that they are looking for opportunities like this to sell their work and receive marketing exposure.”
The auction featured the works of over 60 local artists working in a variety of media, ranging from Lincoln-based Rory Jackson’s oil paintings to Burlington artist Shana Bentley’s handmade earrings and Waterbury artist Jeremy Ayers’ handmade stoneware bowl. The auction supported the exhibiting artists by sharing up to 50% of the value of art sold with the creator (unless the piece was donated by the artist or collector, in which case BCA received 100 percent of the proceeds).
“During this pandemic, it was important for us to amplify our resources to support our working artists,” said Kraft. “We decided that we couldn’t simply operate according to ‘business as usual’ by raising money only for our own organization. We had to spread around our community’s love for the arts and generate a feeling of abundance, which I think we were able to accomplish.”
BCA’s arts-based education programs will benefit from the additional funds raised, as Covid-19 has resulted in losses due to reduced class sizes and increased costs for cleaning and supplies. Last year, nearly 12,000 community members made art with BCA education programs in schools, at community events, and in BCA studios.
Said participating artist Haley Fenn, “I participated in this auction because I believe in community and showing up for what is right. Art and education always seem to be the first to go when funds are cut but they are the most important aspects in preserving and expressing culture. I have worked, and continue to work, towards finding my artistic voice and I will always strive to help others to do the same.”
BCA would like to thank the event's generous underwriters, Community Bank N.A. and the local businesses who gave additional support, Dedalus and Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture.
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Source: Burlington, VT – Burlington City Arts 10.9.2020