Butler museum readies Great American Art Auction

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Butler Institute of American Art, 524 Wick Ave., will have its fourth Great American Art Auction on Oct. 9.

Doors open at 6 p.m. for a silent auction and viewing, with the live auction set for 7 p.m. with auctioneer Jeff Byce.

“The auction allows new and experienced collectors the opportunity to acquire one-of-a-kind works of art and Americana pieces,” said Louis Zona, director of the museum. “Whether for oneself or for a gift, the art auction is a rare chance to purchase original works while enjoying delicious food, good company and great art.”

Included in the live and silent auction are prints and drawings by noted national and regional artists, as well as antique furniture, silver items, ceramics, decoys, gilded frames and historic beer steins. More than 100 pieces will be for sale, including works by Albert Ryder, Gustav Stickley, Clyde Singer, Frank Vaccaro, Thomas McNickle, David Armstrong, Chen Chi and Ken Harris.

A sneak peek at the auction items will take place Tuesday through Oct. 5 during regular museum hours (11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday). Admission and parking are free.

To view the auction online, go to byceauction.com.

The evening features an open bar and gourmet tapas plate stations beginning at 6 p.m. and serving a variety of offerings including braised ribs, scallops, carved chicken breast, fresh vegetables, cannoli, apple tarts, chocolate and almond torte, as well as mixed drinks and soft drinks.

Tickets for the event, which includes food and drinks, are $65 per person ($55 for Butler members).

Proceeds benefit the museum’s free education programs. To reserve by phone, call 330-743-1107, ext. 122.