Art auction supports flood affected

A CREATIVE fundraising effort from Ballarat Grammar’s art and design department is seeking to benefit the Red Cross’ flood appeal in Queensland and New South Wales.

Art captain Grace Hobbs said students and staff are running the 2022 Art & Design Silent Auction to bring the community together in support of those who have lost their homes and loved ones, need food, shelter, and financial assistance.

“It’s really important for us to help each other in really tough times, so we want to raise as money and awareness as we can,” she said.

“Since we’re artists and designers, we thought this would be the most appropriate way for us to do that, and we expect that the diverse range of works will attract lots of people and encourage them to give generously.”

Design captain Emma Twomey said creatives from across the school and broader Ballarat communities have donated pieces to the auction, ranging from young and emerging artists, to established and well-known craftspeople.

“We have work available from Grammar parents, students, and past students, teachers, staff and local Ballarat artists,” she said.

“There are a range of mediums including glass, ceramics, paints, prints, textiles and photography. It’s the entire community coming together and contributing their creativity.”

Art teacher Ruby Pilven is leading the auction alongside the captains, and has contributed some of her own ceramic work.

“As a school, we have a really strong relationship with the Red Cross, so that’s why we’ve chosen to support their appeal,” she said.

“But this auction wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of all the contributing artists. Art can make a change.”

The auction is being run via the AirAuctioneer website, and will close on Friday, 1 April at 8pm. Visit bit.ly/3wyey0A to check out the pieces available, and to bid.