Come for the art, stay for the show and leave with a masterpiece. The Capital Arts Patrons Organisation (CAPO) is set to transform Belconnen Arts Centre into a living canvas on Saturday 18 October, when its much-loved annual art auction returns with a fresh new format and accessible ticketing.
This year’s theme, A Night of Living Art, invites guests to enjoy an evening where creativity takes many forms. Cabaret performer Venus Mantrap will host as both entertainer and auctioneer, with Kokoloco Dance bringing rhythm and colour, The Two Step Trio providing old-time string music, and Natasha Rushka painting live during the event.
Guests will also enjoy generous grazing by The Lazy Grazer and fine wines from Lark Hill Winery, all included in the $65 ticket price. Lower than in previous years, CAPO President Peter de Deckker says the new price helps open the event to a younger and broader audience.
“Last year tickets were $180, but with Allhomes supporting us we’ve been able to bring that down. We want more people to experience this unique night; it doesn’t happen anywhere else in Australia,” he says.
More than 100 works, generously donated by over 90 emerging and established artists, will go under the hammer. Bidding starts around $300, making the auction appealing for seasoned collectors and first-time buyers alike. In a first, works not sold on the night will be available for purchase through the CAPO website until the close of the accompanying exhibition on 30 November.
Beyond the spectacle of the auction night, the funds raised go straight back into the arts community through CAPO’s long-running grants and awards program. With applications currently open, grants range from $500 to $15,000, supporting artists at every stage of their careers.
“The smaller grants are vital; they might cover supplies, memberships or subscriptions that make a real difference to an artist’s practice,” explains CAPO Executive Officer Marilyn Gray.
“Then there’s the $15,000 fellowship, awarded to an established artist with a plan to develop new work or take on further training, even overseas.”
The application process is deliberately simple, designed to encourage more artists to put their hand up. CAPO is the only organisation outside the ACT Government offering this kind of independent arts funding, and over its 42-year history, it has helped sustain countless Canberra artists.
“CAPO has survived because of the generosity of artists who donate their work, and in turn we’ve been able to give back through grants,” says de Deckker. “It’s what keeps the creative ecosystem here alive.”
Patron Genevieve Jacobs AM will host the evening, guiding guests through a program that combines high-class entertainment with the chance to take home a one-of-a-kind piece.
For newcomers to Canberra or first-time bidders, Ms Gray says the event offers more than art.
“It’s an opportunity to meet people, enjoy a wonderful night out, and maybe take home something special, and all while supporting the creative heart of our city.”
Tickets are on sale now for $65. The Art Auction is on Saturday 18 October, from 6:45pm at the Belconnen Arts Centre. Visit capitalartspatronsorganisation.org to learn more.
