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Butler to auction artwork
By GUY D’ASTOLFO
YOUNGSTOWN
Every five years or so, the Butler Institute of American Art has an auction of art to raise money.
The next one — dubbed the Great American Art Auction — will take place May 11 at the main branch at 524 Wick Ave. It will feature at least 100 works of art, including model ships, wood engravings, stained glass, decorative items and, of course, paintings.
“There are some wonderful watercolors,” said Louis Zona, executive director of the museum.
The event will feature a live auction and a silent auction, and will offer a wide-range of prices. Included in the sale will be works by nationally known artists as well as pieces created by regional talent. All proceeds will benefit the Butler’s free programs and other museum projects.
“Most of the pieces have been donated to the museum to use for its benefit,” said Zona.
Many in the auction are from the estate of the late George Breckner, a Youngstown man who taught art in Howland schools for years and also served as a museum volunteer.
Fine artworks in the auction include pieces by Chen Chi, Judy Chicago, Winslow Homer, Norman Laliberte, Thomas G. McNickle, Clyde Singer and Adam Strauss.
Other pieces include an engraving of Winslow Homer’s “Snap the Whip,” the museum’s signature piece.
An auction listing, available online at butlerart.com, will be updated periodically as the auction date approaches.
The Great American Art Auction is open to the public. Admission is $65 ($55 for Butler members), which includes food and drink from several food stations inspired by works in the Butler collection. Seafood, Italian, Southwestern, Northwestern and French food will be offered, and an open bar will be available throughout the evening. An auction catalog also is included in the price of admission.
“Even if you don’t intend to purchase art, you will still get your money’s worth,” said Kathy Earnhart, Butler spokeswoman.
Doors open at 6 p.m., with the live auction beginning at 7:30 p.m. Jeff Byce of Byce Auctions will conduct the auction.
Chances will be available for a number of prizes, including a getaway for two to Chicago for three days and two nights. In addition, a number of special travel opportunities will be included for bid in the silent auction, offering Butler guests a chance to win trips to various resorts and cities including an all- access ultimate NASCAR Fan Experience in Charlotte, N.C.; tickets for a one-day, Legendary Augusta 2013 Masters Golf Tournament; a trip for two to the 2013 Kentucky Derby; tickets to the Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles; a trip to St. Andrews, Scotland; tickets to any concert in the United States; a trip to the NCAA final four; a family vacation in Orlando, Fla., and more.
Butler members will receive an invitation by mail. Others interested in attending the auction may call 330-743-1107, ext. 210, to receive an invitation. Invitations can also be downloaded at butlerart.com.
The last art auction the Butler had was in 2002. It raised about $70,000, which was used to create a catalog of the museum’s collection.