NEWS FROM THE ELORA CENTRE FOR THE ARTS

GALA ART AUCTION - It was a night to remember!

On Saturday, November 1st, the Board of the Elora Centre for the Arts hosted an art event that rivaled anything a sophisticated urban centre could offer. As John Kissick said: “We’re the little centre that could and we did!” Two previews were offered on Saturday to ensure everyone had an opportunity to see the collection of 14 works of art. The morning preview was open to our members and the public, who were encouraged to come and meet John Kissick who was on hand to discuss the amazing collection of contemporary Canadian art in the Minarovich Gallery. An afternoon preview was again hosted by John to those who had purchased tickets for the auction.
Also at that time, the out of town guests were invited to tour the building to see where much of our programming takes place. Roisin Gormley-Young, our Programme Coordinator had a class of young kids in the Casson Room making art for the sheer joy of it.
To set the scene: The Centre looked spiffy thanks to many volunteers who buffed and cleaned. The Harris Room was decked out in gala splendor that was designed and arranged by Alex Chapman, a major Toronto designer who was ably assisted by David McCord, Stu and Marion Oxley and Sophie Hogan.

Guests were warmly greeted by Wynn Schmidt in hall and after coats were hung and programmes and bid numbers were issued, a glass of bubbly was proffered. As one entered the Harris Room, a jazz trio was playing as people mingled, met many of the artists and viewed the fabulous work to be auctioned. There was great buzz of anticipation in the air. The collective gourmazing talents of executive chef Paul Torrence CCC and Peter and Mindy Egger, Innkeepers of the Breadalbane Inn, along with the attentive Van Gali team and Frank Schmidt ensured all guests were treated to a sumptuous and creative array of food. James Gaade presented the Hillebrand Wines VQA Artists Series, the perfect fit for the evening.

The Auction: At 9:30 people took their seats in the Minarovich Gallery at the auction commenced. The mood was bright and people were excited and expectant. John Kissick eloquently spoke of the importance of the Elora Centre for the Arts and challenged us all to match the faith of the artists who gave so much to support the Centre. He proceeded to charm us all, as only the Irish can. There was no cajoling required, the auction moved along at a swift pace. People bid courageously and it was thrilling to see genuine competition for the love of great art. The Behind the Scenes Support Team: Karen Peters, Roisin Gormley-Young, Barb Lee, Lena Nudds, George and Jean Loney and Tom Nudds and our parking attendants Lauren and Dalen.

The net result was $68,000 for the centre. We are still heady with delight!

Those who made it happen:

It is hard to find words to express the gratitude and admiration we feel for John Kissick. John was the artistic force behind the auction, bringing the artists and their work to us, as well as donating a significant piece of his own work for auction. We were dazzled by the art and the artists who gave so generously. (We hear even the artists present had a good time!)

There are so many people to thank for hard work and brilliant design, but one name must rise above all. Dorothy Ames took the 2008 art auction fund raising event and made it a reality with an eye for detail, the bottom line and creating a night to remember. Truly this amazing event would not have come together without her dedication, powerful vision and drive. It takes a very special passion and a huge commitment to keep an eye on the little details and the big picture and organize the team to make it all happen.
But as Dorothy, herself, said. “It also takes a great support team to make it all happen.” Bravo!