Works of Local and National Artists to be Auctioned at Pelham Art Center Saturday

Although art will be the center of the 14th annual “Studio Cafe” event on Saturday, that doesn’t mean the fundraiser is geared strictly toward diehard art enthusiasts.

“It’s a little more casual,” said Lynn Honeysett, the art center’s director. “We have more than 25 restaurants contributing food items. It’s more of a festive, friendly social art event. It’s not like our spring event, which is more formal. We have a live auction and it is more on the casual side. If you want to get your feet wet, the live auction is a good place to start.”

The event, which is the organization’s second largest fundraiser of the year, will take place at 7:30 p.m. underneath a tent on the center’s courtyard.

More than 20 works of art have been donated by donors, local talent  and national names. Artists whose works will be available include Chris Smith,  who was featured in the art center’s Ocean Reglitterized exhibit, Bruce Withers, and photographers Carey Weiss and Nick Kuskin.

An ink drawing from Ben Shahn, a notable artist who was part of the social realist movement in the 1940s and 1950s, called the “Businessman ” will be available in the silent auction.

Live music will also be performed to go along with the wine and food that is served.

Proceeds from the event will be used to support the art center’s mission of provding free and affordable programs to the community. Honeysett said that she hopes to bring in about $100,000 from the fundraiser and expects about 180 to attend the event.

Tickets are $65 and $90 and are available in person and online at www.pelhamartcenter.org/events. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $75.