Still trying to figure out what to hang over that sofa? Here’s your chance to take home original artworks created by local painters.
The fourth annual En Plein Air: Paint the Town Art Auction & Gala happens tomorrow night, June 9, at the Cary Arts Center, a free evening of music, dancing and an auction of all-original, local art.
“Farmers Market” by Tesh Parekh
“This year, a resolute group of local En Plein Air artists overcame a cool, rainy and windy day to document the charm and beauty of our parks and downtown, including three paintings of our newest addition, the fountain in the Cary’s Downtown Park,” said Jewel Kichak, operations and program supervisor for arts education.
Kichak adds that the participating painters included both new and returning artists, who created works using watercolors, acrylics and oils during the outdoor painting event.
Nearly 40 of these original works will be available in a silent auction on Friday from 6 to 8:15 p.m., offering you the opportunity to come away with a treasured piece depicting downtown Cary’s landscape, history and culture.
“The Fidelity Bank,” by Ron Thomas.
Live music and dancing will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m., along with light fare and punch and a wine and beer cash bar, as The Jim McCann Jazz Project performs.
Twenty percent of all proceeds from the art auction will benefit the Relief for Recreation Scholarship Fund, which helps Cary citizens participate in the town’s Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources programs via scholarships and reduced fees.
The auction and gala also offer the chance to vote on your favorite En Plein Air painting.
Cash prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places as determined by judges, as well as the People’s Choice.
“Jaywalking,” by Lyudmila Tomova.
“It’s an exciting time for Cary,” said Kichak, “and these local artists have helped capture the great things goings on that make our town such a great place to live, work, and play.”
To view an online gallery of the paintings that will be auctioned, search En Plein Air at townofcary.org.
