SAAG is psyched for ArtFrenzy— the local art museum’s popular annual fund-raising event.
But, due to Covid 19 The Southern Alberta Art Gallery is thinking out of the box so the twenty-eighth annual ArtFrenzy will be an online auction of 44 artworks and 16 gift packages.
While the actual auction is tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 21, there are three one hour long Champagne Previews tonight, Nov. 20.
“It’s our annual signature fundraising event, but because of Covid, our usual live auction party will be a virtual event this year. There are 44 artworks and 16 different experiences to bid on,” said SAAG Executive director Kristy Trinier, noting there has already been a frenzy of interest in early bidding since bidding opened on Nov. 13. Bidding closes at 9 p.m., Nov. 21.
She noted it was a priority to ensure Art Frenzy is a safe as an event as possible.
“It has been a challenging process. But we’re very thankful for the art community’s support of this non-profit gallery,” she said.
The participating artists, who donated their work to ArtFrenzy including University of Lethbridge professors, students, alumni and community members, many of whom have been part of previous SAAG exhibits.
They have utilized a variety of different mediums including paint, photography, graphic design, crafts, needlepoint, fabric art, leather work, needlepoint, sculpture and more. Trinier was excited by the different perspectives all the different artists brought to the table.
Another U of L artist Mary-Anne McTrowe has created cozies featuring Lethbridge landmarks. Another familiar face, Shanell Papp, who knitted a giant skeleton for the last exhibit at CASA, also has work in Art Frenzy.
Patrons can order party boxes through the Art Frenzy page featuring drinks from Andrew Hilton and food from L.A. Chefs. to enjoy while watching the auction go down.
There are also a couple of prize draw that patrons can buy tickets for including a diamond necklace.
You can bid on your favourites online at https://www.saag.ca/art-frenzy