Nanaimo's First Public Art Auction

Art Auction Raises $2400

Nanaimo's first auction of temporary public art was held Friday Oct. 22 at 4:30 PM in Maffeo Sutton Park. The weather co-operated in that the rain held off, however it was overcast and a refreshing breeze did  come in off the water rearranging a few displays.

While the crowd of less than 35 including organizers was perhaps a little disappointing, those in attendance came prepared to open their wallets to support the local arts. All pieces on the auction block sold, with the exception of the 'Dancing with Eagles' carving by Dan Richey. The $1000 reserve bid was just too rich for those in attendance which means someone with an extra $1000 could have walked off with a real bargain as the sculpture is valued at over $5,000.

The other bargains to be had were:

Large Palm Tree sold for $650

Explorative Entrance sold for $250

Open Coastal Natural Galleries sold for $200

Seated Figure sold for $150

Great Blue Heron sold for $450

Small Palm Tree sold for $700

We shouldn't despise humble beginnings and already plans are in the works to make next years display of temporary public art even bigger and better.