By CAROLYN BELL FARRELL
The MacLaren Art Centre's growth over the years has been generously supported by volunteerism and philanthropic giving from both individuals and organizations. Online article here, http://www.thebarrieexaminer.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3362662
In recent years, up to 50% of our operating funds have come from the community in the form of donations, sponsorships and fundraising revenues.
Our annual cycle of activities is marked not only by our exhibitions and educational programmes but also by our fundraising events. Each season, we offer events that attract and engage different audiences. February brings The Battle of the Bay Street Bands, a lively party that showcases the musical talents of Barrie's financial and medical professions. March is our Benefactor Member Art Exchange, during which our patrons can select a work of art to bring home on loan for one year. April is our Black Tie Gala with outstanding dining and dancing. In July we participate in Kempenfest with the MacLaren's Oasis.
In September, we pay tribute to community leaders at our Legacy Dinner. And, in November we hold our much anticipated art auction.
Each year, artists from across the province acknowledge the important role the MacLaren plays in their lives by providing artworks for our Off the Hook Silent Art Auction. Proceeds from the auction are shared with the artists and directly benefit MacLaren programming. Drawing capacity crowds of 350 people, the auction and its weeklong preview offer tremendous exposure for artists, stimulating future sales and fostering the interests of regional art collectors.
At the MacLaren, our 225 volunteers are central to our success, taking on integral roles as gallery guides, front desk greeters, board members and on fundraising committees. We also attract many young volunteers who fulfill community service hours and complete co-op placements at the gallery. Post-secondary students participate in exhibition and education research, artist-in-residence activities, outreach initiatives and our annual art auction.
This year's art auction committee is chaired by Cathie Bowden, who is working closely with development officer Sheila Delaney to ensure the success of this event, supported by students in the professional practices course of Georgian College's School of Design and Visual Arts.
The 21st annual Off the Hook is this Friday, with a preview of works this week.
This signature fundraising event, sponsored by TD Waterhouse private client services, Barriston Law and The Kempenfelt Group, offers 150 original works of art for auction by 100 regional artists, and a wealth of great finds generously donated by local retailers. Tickets are $50 each and are available now at the Gallery. The evening also includes hors d'oeuvres and desserts by Cravings, Oscar's and Michael & Marion's. Join me at the MacLaren on Friday. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Visit www.maclarenart.comto see auction highlights.
Carolyn Bell Farrell is the executive director of the MacLaren Art Centre
Online article here, http://www.thebarrieexaminer.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3362662