Museum silent auction in need of items

District artists and crafters are invited to help raise funds for the Fort Frances Museum by donating artwork to the “Friends of the Museum” fall soirée and fundraiser gala on Nov. 1.
Part of the evening’s program will include a silent auction.

While several artists and crafters already have donated items, organizers are welcoming more to help support a good cause and showcase their work.
“More is better,” said “Friend” member Debbie Ballard, noting the items donated so far range from artwork by Cher Pruys and several members of the Fine Line Art Gallery and handcrafted cards to a wool-felted pillow, a wreath, and homemade candy.
She added those who donate also are encouraged to attend the event, so that not only can other guests “bid on some really fantastic arts and crafts, but they can talk to the artist in person.”
Artists and crafters who donate their work to the silent auction will receive half of the proceeds, with the other half going to the “Friends of the Museum.”
Of course, artists and crafters always are welcome to donate their half of the proceeds to the cause, noted Ballard.
She added that while part of the cost of admission to the event is a donation in itself, organizers are banking on the silent auction to bring in as much as possible.
As such, the true success of the fundraiser really depends on participation by artists and crafters.
Those wishing to donate are asked to contact the museum (274-7891), Ballard (274-5373 ext. 226), or Pat Basaraba (274-5203).
Alternately, they can e-mail sgeorge@fort-frances.com or dballard@fortfrances.com
Running from 6:30-9:30 p.m., the fall soirée also will feature the unveiling of a painting by late prominent aboriginal Canadian artist Norval Morrisseau, which was donated to the museum years ago by former resident and teacher Margaret Lichtenstein.
There also will be the first public look at the completed Community Arts and Heritage Project, “What Hooks You Here?”
The soirée also coincides with exhibits by two local artists, Lindsay Hamilton and Jean Richards.
On top of that, the evening will include live music by the Borderland Ensemble, some games and prizes, and a selection of wine, cheese, and hors d’oeuvres prepared by local chef Mark Nagant.
“Want people to come out and have some fun, have some good food and a nice glass of wine, and see some really incredible stuff,” enthused Ballard.
Tickets, which cost $35 each, are available at the Fort Frances Museum, the Fort Frances Times, and from “Friends” members.
You also can reserve them by calling museum curator Sherry George at 274-7891.
Only a limited number are available.
The “Friends of the Museum” is a new non-profit group of volunteers who, for the past year, have been raising funds to help pay for “extras” at the museum that go beyond its annual operating budget.
The group’s aim is to help the museum provide more programming for residents, especially children, as well as make capital purchases, such as a digital message board for the museum’s exterior.