General Information On Fundraising Art Auctions

By Jaclyn Hurley


Arrange an art auction for fundraising purposes is important and done for many different reasons. It is often the approach that non-profits take when they are in need of money, artists use as a way to gain publicity by donating their art, and bidders participate in to get access to high art at less expensive prices. Fundraising art auctions are help across the globe and are beneficial for bidders, donors and non-profit organizations.

There are specific pointers that can be used to help people involved in these events. These can ensure they have a nice time and meet their goals, whether they relate to buying, donating or selling. Overall, the objective of these auctions is to raise money that will be put toward an admirable cause.

For artists, the best fundraisers to donate to are those that support arts organizations and attract members of visual art communities, particularly collectors. This makes for a better opportunity for work to be seen and your name to get out there. Donations to non-art related fundraisers are also a good idea, but should be for an established auction in which you believe in the goals of the organizations and not to further your career.

Those not familiar with an organization requesting art should do research to learn more. Donate a nice piece of art that positively reflects your generosity and also your talent. Donors should also be sure to include contact information and biography to go along with the art and cooperate with the people putting the auction together.

Bidders should look over all the available art at auctions, if possible. These events can be a place to discover artists and learn more about the art itself. Find out more about the artists of each work before bidding on their pieces, and take care when bidding. If you look around, you might be able to meet and interact with artists who are often present and standing by their pieces.

People in charge of putting these events together should set the guidelines for submitting for donors. These posts might also feature pointers so they know what type of art is expected to do the best, the price range that is ideal for most bidders, and how the artists can best represent their work and themselves. Be sure to include details on how the event is bring promoted, how publicity will benefit them and the number of attendees expected to see the art. Contributors may be urged to set their selling and bidding prices at a reasonable number.

Organizers might want to publish a sale catalogue that features basic information on every artists and the work they have for sale. This can then be mailed out to the attendees as soon as they pay for their tickets. If they have more time to look over and think about the art, they will find it easier when it comes time to bid. Choose a venue with plenty of space for socializing and displays.

Admission price to this event should include refreshments that are complimentary. Make sure active bidders are given preferred seating. Hire an auctioneer that has experience with these types of auctions, as these are different than ordinary auctions where moving merchandise as quickly as possible is the goal. A skilled auctioneer of charity events can make a big difference. Display the art prominently and make sure bidders can find out more about artists they plan to bid on.




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