Dundas art auction will feature vast variety of pieces

April 7 evening features 1,572 works, limited edition lithographs by Dali, Picasso

The Dundas Valley School of Art is once again opening its doors for what has become one of the most anticipated nights of the year in Hamilton’s artistic community.

DVSA’s annual art auction, which takes place Saturday, April 7, is the school’s marquee fundraising event — and this year, it’s offering more pieces than ever before.

“The response from regional artists has been phenomenal,” says Heather Vaugeois, director of advancement for DVSA. “We’re getting hard pressed to find space for all the submissions, so this year we’re opening up Studio 6 for more great art. There’ll be plenty of options for collectors and casual art lovers looking to buy original, high-quality and affordable works.”

This year’s auction will offer 1,572 pieces, including paintings, drawings, pottery, photography, and jewelry. The auction features limited edition lithographs by Picasso and Salvador Dali; iconic Canadian artists such as Frank Panabaker and Conrad Furey; and emerging and established artists from this region.

Over the three days of the fundraiser’s previews and events, the school will host more than 3,500 visitors. The slogan for this year’s auction, “Who says you can’t buy love?,” references the diversity of the selection, said Claire Loughheed, DVSA executive director.

“Walking into the school is a feast for the senses with art everywhere in all styles and mediums. It’s impossible not to find a piece that speaks to you,” she said.

The school put out a call for submissions in January and has been selecting pieces since then, said DVSA spokesperson Keir Overton.

Artists have a choice of either donating 100 per cent of the proceeds of their work, or splitting the sale 50/50 with the school.

“For many artists, it’s an opportunity to continue to be a working artist. It’s kind of a win/ win,” Overton said.

Last year, the auction raised $301,000 — roughly 50 per cent of which was funnelled back to local artists. The remainder went toward DVSA programming, including classes for all ages and disciplines, as well as outreach programs for seniors, students, and families.