The organizers of the Fall Art Show and Sale say the 30th annual event being held this weekend October 5th and 6th at the Oliver Community Hall will be the best ever presented by the Oliver Community Arts Council. On Saturday a record 124 entries from professional, hobby and emerging artists will be competing for your vote in the 8 categories of artwork. Without a pre-determined theme, artists have submitted their best art to give the viewers a huge range of subjects from which to choose their favourites and a winner of “Best in Show”.
An added diversion from viewing the art is the awesome silent auction offerings. Thanks goes out to the tremendous support received from local businesses, wineries and individuals for the fabulous contributions that will be laid out for your bidding pleasure. The vast majority of items are brand new, both gift packages and gift certificates. We’re giving away no secrets here. You’ll just have to come and check it out. There’s something enticing for everyone. Come early when the show opens at 3 pm Saturday and return often before bidding closes at 8 pm. A fresh set of wonderful offerings will again be up for your bids when the show continues on Sunday.
Everyone is encouraged to join the artists at the opening reception Saturday night from 7 pm to 9 pm. While artists and art admirers take in the show, appetizing desserts will be served and local musician, Bob Park will perform on classical guitar. The voting ends at 8 pm at which time, the OCAC president, Stephanie Salsnek will announce the artist winners.
The show continues on Sunday with the winning art displaying colourful rosettes announcing their secured position from the Saturday vote. All the artwork entered in the show is for sale. Purchasers can buy any time while the show is on but the art stays for viewing until the show closes. Great art is worth waiting for, right?
While Saturday’s show is free, Sunday’s is an added attraction to the Festival of the Grape. The only access then is through their ticket. If you’re out on the Festival grounds needing a break from sipping wine, stroll over to the Community Hall and check out the artwork. Oliver has so many talented artists. This is a rare opportunity to view all their work together at one time.
It’s a great event for schmingling! For the uninitiated, schmingling is a combination of schmoozing and mingling: see who you know, eat, sip punch, chat about art and life, laugh, shake hands with an artist, learn something, meet someone new, have fun!
File photo from a previous Fall Art Show and Sale
Photo Credit: Val Friesen
