ARTS COUNCIL OF BIG SKY
BIG SKY – The Arts Council of Big Sky is hosting its third annual fundraising art auction on Thursday, March 26, at Lone Mountain Ranch from 5-8 p.m.
The evening begins with a “quick finish” session including renowned painters Tom Gilleon, Harry Koyama, Shirle Wempner, Laurie Stevens, Julie Chapman and Tom English, along with sculptor Greg Woodard.
These artists will finish their work during the first part of the event, and the pieces will be auctioned off later in the evening. People are encouraged to come early and watch as the pieces come to life, are finished, and then framed in front of them.
During the quick-finish session, appetizers will be passed around and the ranch saloon will be open with a full bar. The Craig Hall Trio will play light jazz music as well.
New this year is a silent auction component, featuring artists from Big Sky and Bozeman, including Jackie Rainford Corcoran, Jill Zeidler, Ryan Turner, Ariane Coleman, Craig Hergert, Shelly Bermont, Paula Pearl, Todd Connor, Kira Fercho, Greg Darden and Mike Stoner. A dinner for four at the new Moonlight Tavern will also be part of the silent auction.
“We’re excited to bring in these amazing artists and showcase them to the Big Sky community,” said ACBS Executive Director Brian Hurlbut. “We feel this is a fun and different event for Big Sky, and anyone who appreciates fine art and delicious food is encouraged to attend.”
A professional auctioneer will get the bidding going for the live auction at 7:30 p.m. in the Lone Mountain Ranch dining room. Half of the art auction proceeds will go directly to the Arts Council of Big Sky, to help offset the costs of producing more than 15 events throughout the year – many of them free.
“This fundraiser makes a statement about the direction the Arts Council is headed,” said ACBS Vice President of Development Tallie Lancey. “We’re a volunteer-driven, nonprofit group of passionate individuals who work to serve the artistic and cultural demands of our entire community.”
Tickets are limited and include heavy appetizers presented by LMR Executive Chef Nick Steen, and two drink tickets good for a draft beer or house wine. Tickets are now available and can only be purchased by calling ACBS at (406) 995-2742.
