The 10th annual Audain Gala proved to be a smashing success, with an unprecedented $1,040,000 raised in support for the Audain Art Museum (AAM). Over 500 art enthusiasts gathered on April 12 for a night of philanthropy and and fellowship.
"The AAM is grateful for the outstanding generosity of our supporters and the community at large," says Dr. Curtis Collins, museum director and chief curator, in a press release. "The Audain Gala has become one of the premiere fundraisers in British Columbia and underlines the social benefit of cultural endeavours. On behalf of the AAM's staff and trustees, I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Nicola Wealth for their ongoing support and to everyone who has played a part in making this event such a tremendous success!"
A live auction run by Robert Heffel, Vice President of Heffel Fine Art Auction House, was the evening's cornerstone. 14 works by renowned artists Edward Burtynsky, Jack Shadbolt, Russna Kaur and more, were up for bidding. The auction's top lot, David Yarrow's Gold Digger Saloon (2023), sold for $80,000.
Fine dining and cocktails were on tap throughout the gala, hosted by Fred Lee and Gloria Macarenko.
"We are incredibly proud to support the arts in British Columbia and to have played a part in championing the work of the AAM," remarks Kevin Mazzone and Todd Shewfelt, co-chairs of the Gala Committee, in a release. "It has been an honour to work alongside a remarkable group of volunteers whose passion and dedication helped make this one of the province's most successful — and most fun — cultural events of the year.
"Thank you to the artists, collectors, galleries, sponsors, and donors who helped make the evening possible, and thank you to the AAM staff who work behind the scenes all year round to create an unforgettable event."
.png;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)