Art auction fundraiser returns
Hanging a piece by acclaimed Otago artist Anita DeSoto for the Timaru North Rotary Art Auction are convener Harley Smithson and Aigantighe Art Gallery curator Izzy Hillman. PHOTO: CONNOR HALEY
Almost 100 pieces of local art are set to go under the hammer in an effort to support young South Cantabrians pursuing the arts.
After a hiatus since 2019, the Timaru North Rotary Art Auction is back at the Aigantighe Art Gallery, and will be raising funds to go towards its art scholarship, Artarama exhibition and other youth-based arts initiatives.
Convener Harley Smithson said they had 94 pieces up for sale from more than 30 local artists.
"We have had tremendous support from local artists, the gallery and the Friends of the Aigantighe. They've all just really got behind it.
"Four weeks ago we probably only had 10 pieces. We also had Anita DeSoto [2025 Margaret Stoddart Artist Residency recipient] from Dunedin email us and donate a piece to the auction.
"We've got a lot here, so we just need a good number of people to come and get something for a donation. I'd recommend for people to get here early, look at all the works and find something they might like."
The auction will take place tomorrow. Doors will open at 7pm with some light refreshments, and the auction itself will begin at 7.30pm sharp.
Mr Smithson said Rotary North had not awarded its arts scholarship for the last couple of years.
"Over the years we've helped about six [people] with the full scholarship, and two others with small donations.
"We actually have a piece in the auction by our last recipient. We want to see kids grow and prosper in the arts and make sure they can see a future in it.
"The main thing is though they have to make sure they apply for these things. I was talking to lecturer at Lincoln University and he said half the scholarships that are available, nobody goes for."
Aigantighe Art Gallery curator Izzy Hillman said the pieces up for auction could range from $50 to $6000.
"There's some very good work from some very good local artists.
"There has been great support from the local commercial galleries like York Street and Redbird. That's really helped, and they also then hounded other artists. There is a combination of works on commission and works on full donation.
"Some artists have donated the proceeds past their reserve and others have just been 'here you go, have it'.
"The gallery will be open today and tomorrow before the auction for people to come in and have a look."
connor.haley@timarucourier.co.nz
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