Eleven years ago in an empty warehouse in Benicia's lower arsenal, an event took place that inaugurated the transformation of a neighborhood with a blaze of light and music. Artists, art lovers, and many curious citizens gathered for the first of what was to become Benicia's classiest and most festive art event and Arts Benicia's most important fundraiser. This year Arts Benicia is celebrating our 11th annual Art Auction and Dance Gala featuring over 300 pieces of art from over 130 regional artists. The arts community and Arts Benicia have grown and developed substantially over the past eleven years, receiving regional recognition and contributing significantly to the cultural life of the area. The auction is a fantastic party, but it's also one of the best local exhibitions of work, emblematic of the energetic and diverse community to which Arts Benicia belongs. This year's event will take place on Saturday, October 4th.

"I've been coming to this event for years," enthuses Kathleen Olson, president of Arts Benicia's board of directors, "and I've never seen a turnout like this before. The art is spectacular." Well-known artists, local stars and emerging talent are well represented. In addition, there will be a silent auction so newcomers who aren't as comfortable with the back-and-forth excitement of the live auction will have an opportunity to collect from their favorite artists. The gala attracts new and experienced art collectors from all over Northern California.

All art to be auctioned can be previewed for free on Saturday and Sunday, September 27 and 28, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

On Saturday, October 4th, the silent auction runs from 6 to 10 p.m., the live auction from 8 to 9:30 p.m., and the live music and dancing are from 10 until midnight. Refreshments will be available.

Tickets are available at Arts Benicia, Benicia Chamber of Commerce, Benicia Frame, Bookshop Benicia and the Camellia Tea Room. Tickets are $15 for Arts Benicia members, $20 for non-members.

The event takes place at the Arts Benicia Gallery, 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114 in the Benicia Arsenal district. For more information, visit our website at www.artsbenicia.org or call (707) 747-0131. email: info@artsbenicia.org

Arts Benicia is a non-profit organization with a contemporary gallery exhibiting the work of selected fine artists and artisans of California with emphasis on Benicia artists. Adjunct activities include poetry readings and workshops, slide shows and talks by exhibiting artists, as well as music and dance events. Arts Benicia is Benicia's official arts body promoting culture and the arts in the area.

CLICK HERE to view photos from past years' Art Auction & Gala

Note about Proxy Bids: We invite and encourage everyone to attend our 11th Annual Art Auction and Gala on October 4, 2003. For those who cannot attend the art auction in person, please contact Arts Benicia before the auction date if you would like to arrange a Proxy Bid on a specific art piece.

ARTS BENICIA
telephone: 707-747-0131
email: info@artsbenicia.org

webpage design by Christine Arthur Studio
www.christinearthurstudio.com