Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE - Local artists will donate original pieces of art for a charity art auction Thursday to benefit United Way.
The second annual charity art auction, "The Art of Caring," will be held at the Village at Winona along Park Avenue and Canal Street from 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Last year, Village artists donated original pieces of art for the auction, ranging from large oils, pottery, blown glass and jewelry. The event raised more than $10,000.
Those who attend this year's event will have the opportunity to purchase pieces of art.
Shop and gallery owners who are participating include: Art & Soul, Blue Heron, Boathouse Restaurant, Canal Street Gallery, Hudson Gallery, Just Imagine Gallery, Gallery D, Park Avenue Gallery, Pottery Bayou, Vintage France, Cerulean & Flying Fish Catering, Two Red Chairs Gallery, Trailhouse, The Village Barber, Whetstone Woodenware, Winona Woods, Winona Mercantile and The Village at Winona.
Two artists will each create an original painting one hour prior to the auction that will be for sale. Artists Robert A. Hudson and Steve Johnson will "duel" while visitors watch how original pieces are completed from start to finish.
A live auction, silent auction and raffle will be held at the Village gazebo. Hors d'oeuvres will be served. The Village Masterworks performers will provide entertainment. The Village's Park Avenue will be lamp-lit for shoppers to shop at shops and galleries. Each shop and gallery will give 10 percent of its evening sales to United Way.
Proceeds from the "Art of Caring" event will help the United Way support 51 local programs in the areas of youth development, family and community wellness, self sufficiency and emergency services. United Way has set the overall community goal for about $1.7 million this year.
To request an invitation or to RSVP for the event, contact Karen Louthain at the United Way of Kosciusko County by e-mail at unitedwaykaren@kconline.com or call 574-269-2592.
