Gainesville's Quinlan Visual Arts Center has announced it will hold its 45th annual GALA Fine Art Auction over three days beginning March 2.
According to a press release from the organization, the three-day event culminates on March 4 and features silent and live fine art auctions. All works offered for auction will be on exhibit at the Quinlan, located on Green Street in Gainesville. Additionally, the exhibition opens with a Preview Night Party at 5:30 p.m. on March 2. There is no charge to attend the preview night.
"Along with over 150 pieces of art, ranging in price, subject matter, and mediums, patrons can expect food and beverage trucks, free art activities for children and quality time with participating artists and art enthusiasts," the release reads.
The silent auction opens at the same time as the preview party and runs until 11 p.m. on March 4. Bidding on the silent auction does not require tickets and registration is free.
"This much-anticipated event promises all original works of the highest caliber," the release reads. "Well known as the art sale, when looking for exceptional works of visual art, GALA brings the region’s most avid art connoisseurs and collectors to the Quinlan’s doors."
Willis Investment Counsel is the presenting sponsor for GALA for the tenth consecutive year.
The Quinlan selects an Artist Guest of Honor at each year's GALA. Chad Shore was chosen as this year's guest of honor. He was described as a local but nationally recognized pop artist.
“Chad’s art sensitively yet evocatively depicts females in edgy concentrations, sometimes through the curvature of a neck or the playful opening of a mouth,” Nairika Cornett, director of the Quinlan, said.
Aside from Shore, over 50 artists and 150 works will be up for auction. Artists include Dennis Campay, David Wendel, Marilyn Sparks, Jill and Patrick McGannon, Rae Broyles, Gayle Levee and others.
The GALA live auction will be held at 6:30 p.m. on March 4 and will be conducted by Doug Carter. The live auction is a black-tie event with a sit-down dinner and host bar. Tickets can be purchased for $200 by contacting the Quinlan at 770-536-2575 or by email at [email protected].
Proceeds will directly fund Quinlan programs focusing on exhibitions, education and community engagement.
“Willis Investment Counsel is proud to continue supporting the Quinlan Visual Arts Center through the annual Gala event," Jay Kilroy, president of Willis Investment Counsel, said. "While raising funds has become more difficult in this environment, we believe the Quinlan team has put together an excellent plan of action to allow patrons an opportunity to acquire exceptional art and directly support the Q’s initiatives. We are thrilled to be partnering with the Quinlan for the tenth year in a row, and look forward to the event on March 4th.”
