Art auction brings community together - 26/01/2010

An art gallery in the US is to hold an auction to stave off the effects of the recession, it has been revealed.

The Sheppard Fine Arts Gallery will hold its 10th Biennial Valentine Invitational Exhibition and Auction in February, with a focus on thwarting the economic impact the downturn has had on the gallery, according to the Nevada Sagebrush.

Amy Winberg, gallery manager, told the news provider: "With all the budget cuts and the recession, we haven't had as much money as we normally do.

"When you can’t get the money from the government you have to find it through those who support the gallery."

Local artists have been called upon to both submit and bid for lots, with an emphasis being placed on community spirit.

Marjorie Vecchio, gallery director, said: "It's a very big community event and is a great way for the community to get together."

All lots will have a start-price of $30 and will rise in $10 increments. While no one will be walking home with a Monet, the auction is likely to be a great deal of fun, with hundreds of bidders expected and tens of thousands of dollars likely to be raised.