An upcoming art show offers buyers the chance to snap up works by notable local artists at an affordable price. There is a catch, however. Buyers won’t know who painted their pieces until after they’ve bought them.
That’s the theme of the 8 x 8 Anonymous Art Show, a fundraising art event organized by Friends of Powell River Public Library.
“This event will be a fun way for people to buy art and support the new library,” said society treasurer Ann Trousdell. “The pieces measure eight by eight inches and cost $88 each.”
Just under 140 canvasses have been submitted by local painters, including artists from local francophone school École Côte-du-Soleil.
“Canvases can be purchased on a first-come-first-served basis,” she said. “After purchase, buyers will find out who painted their piece as they are signed on the back.”
The event’s proceeds will be used to purchase materials for the new library’s collection.
“The new library location has over three times the space than the current one,” she said, “so we need to purchase more books, DVDs and materials to fill it up.”
Trousdell said the society hopes to raise $100,000 for new materials through the event, as well as calendars, book sales and donations.
“Libraries are so important to communities,” she said. “They are one of the first places new people go to in a town to situate themselves.”
The exhibit launches with a private, members-only show for $10 between 5 and 6 pm, Friday, November 27, at the former Bank of Montreal Building in Townsite. Memberships can be bought at the door for $5.
Non-members can attend the exhibit from 6 pm Friday and art sales will continue Saturday and Sunday, November 28 and 29, between 11 am and 4 pm.
“The first 10 members in the door will be given the opportunity to buy their pieces first,” said Trousdell.
For more information, readers can go to facebook.com/events/999030000153212.
