The Art Base, renowned for its contributions to the Roaring Fork Valley art scene, will host its annual flagship fundraising event, the “pARTy,” on Aug. 17.
The Sopris Sun recently spoke with Art Base Executive Director Annie Henninger, who shared insights into the Basalt-based arts nonprofit’s annual flagship fundraiser.
This year’s theme is “Mountain Bohemian,” a nod to the environmental conservation efforts of Melva Bucksbaum Dedication to the Arts Award honoree Bill Kane, who has lived in the Roaring Fork Valley with his wife Carolyn since 1975, arriving to serve as the planning director for Aspen and Pitkin County.
The award is given annually to an individual who has made significant contributions to the arts in the community. Kane, a former Art Base board member and former town manager and mayor of Basalt, fits that bill as an advocate for Roaring Fork Valley nonprofits, beginning in 1978 when he served on the Aspen Art Museum board of directors while working as the City of Aspen’s planning director. In the 1990s, he collaborated with Robert Harth, then president and CEO of the Aspen Music Festival and School, to develop a campus master plan.
Henninger highlighted Kane’s dedication to improving the quality of life in the Roaring Fork Valley, describing him as “instrumental,” first with the organization’s move to the Wyly Arts Center (the former Basalt Library location) and then to its current location on Midland Avenue.
The Arts Base has been making monthly payments on its current home and occasionally hosts capital fundraising efforts “to knock down the mortgage,” Kane shared.
“The Art Base has really blossomed. They own their space, and the community has been very generous. It’s one of the best gallery spaces — it’s spectacular,” he said.
Celebrating its 10th year, the “10×10 Name Unseen Silent Auction” features over 130 works of art, each 10 inches by 10 inches, generously donated by local artists. These artworks are unsigned, adding an element of mystery and excitement to the bidding process.
Expressing her gratitude for the artists contributing to the auction, Henninger said, “Not only is there quality and creativity [in the artwork] but there’s the generosity of all of these artists donating their time and their talents to support The Art Base.”
Henninger encouraged community members to participate, noting that anyone can register to bid online, regardless of whether they attend the event. The auction runs from Aug. 2 through Aug. 17, allowing ample time for participants to view and bid on artwork.
In addition to in-person silent auction bidding from 5pm to its close at 6:30pm, the pARTy will include a cocktail reception sponsored by Woody Creek Distillers, featuring signature cocktails and a catered dinner provided by The Farmer and Chef.
Henninger highlighted the importance of community support for the event, encouraging those interested to purchase tickets soon, as they are expected to sell out.
The evening will culminate in a paddle raise auction, where attendees pledge financial support for various categories of programming, with each pledge directly supporting the continuation and expansion of The Art Base’s offerings.
Kane praised The Art Base’s programming, especially for youth. “A lot of people have gone through a few classes at The Art Base and found out that they truly have talent. And it’s not just with art; some of them have been led into architecture, and some kids chose engineering paths. They discovered some skills that gave them the confidence to get into design professions, so it’s pretty impressive.”
Henninger encouraged attendees to embrace this year’s “Mountain Bohemian” theme with expressive attire that reflects a rich tapestry of colors, patterns and textures inspired by nature and the arts. “We are celebrating community this year,” Henninger said, emphasizing the event’s focus on coming together and supporting one another through the joy of artistic expression.
The public is welcome to attend the pARTy’s opening reception to view “10×10 Name Unseen Silent Auction” items at The Art Base, 174 Midland Avenue in downtown Basalt on Aug. 2 from 5 to 7pm.
To bid on “10×10 Name Unseen Silent Auction” artwork or to purchase tickets for the pARTy, go to www.theartbase.org