The Fort Madison Area Arts Association is hosting its largest fundraiser of the year Saturday night. The annual event comes at a time when the organization is facing a significant financial hurdle.
The Expressions Art Auction 2019 will get underway with a wine tasting at 6:30 p.m. at Quality Inn & Suites in Fort Madison. The auction will get underway an hour later, featuring the works of regional artists, gift certificates for food and local experiences, tickets to sporting events, and vacation opportunities.
Executive Director Brian Riggs said the auction takes on added significance now.
Riggs said that in recent years the city has contributed to the arts association with revenue generated by the local hotel-motel sales tax. But he said the $15,000 the organization was hoping for in the upcoming fiscal year will not be arriving due to the city’s financial challenges.
“Not that the auction can overcome what we were getting from our second revenue stream, but a good art auction could at least staunch the bleeding,” said Riggs.
Riggs said in recent years, he has heard from people who wanted to support the FMAAA but could not attend the annual art auction. He said that should not longer be an issue. That’s because this year’s event also features an online auction, which is underway. The online auction features a couple dozen works of art and local experiences to bid on.
For those who can attend, tickets are $40. They can be purchased at the downtown art gallery, Dana Bushon Jewelers, from FMAAA Board Members, and at the door.
