The Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery is hosting its third chair auction fundraiser this weekend where art lovers can hopefully take home a beautifully-painted piece of furniture.
All the money raised will go towards the general costs of running the gallery, including things such programming, gala openings and shows put on by the team of volunteers, as well as the cost of up keeping the space at the Machine Shop.
Kathy Holmes said the auction isn’t put on every year but has become “extremely important because we’re a non-profit.”
There will be 25 chairs, two tables, a small funky desk, a couple of side tables and a few surprises depending on what else the artists bring in which will all be awarded to the highest bidder.
“The chairs are amazing…you can give everybody the same chair and they would all be different,” Holmes said.
In this case, however, the uniqueness of each chair design is also want contributes to the originality of the finished piece.
“All of these chairs were destined to death - they were going to end up in a garbage dump somewhere,” Holmes added.
But gallery members put in the labour to prep their unique work surface before applying the first coat of colour.
“They could be kids chairs…there are two that are just painted navy blue and they are just stunning,” Holmes said.
“Other ones are decorated, some of have been upholstered - it’s the full gamut.”
Perhaps one of the most interesting chairs up for grabs was used for some time by Coast Salish carver John Marston and has since been repainted with a crow on the back.
A decorative art piece for a guest bedroom, or a unique chair to have around the kitchen table, the original four-legged items are sure to add comfort and originality to a home.
“I actually have one that I consider an art piece…and if I need an extra chair I’ll bring it out. But it’s beautifully done and I’ve had it for about five years,” Holmes said.
Other items part of the auction will be a stunning painting by well-known Nanaimo artist Grant Leier, two tickets to the Nutcracker in Victoria and a wrap from the Ladysmith-based High Road Clothing.
Refreshments from Riot Brewing Co., Rocky Creek Winery and Merridale Ciderworks will also make for an enjoyable evening.
Doors open for viewing at 6:30 p.m. and the silent auction gets started at 7 p.m.
Check www.ladysmithwaterfrontgallery.com for more info.