24 Nov Round Up: Annual Auction for the Arts Returns to Big Sky in February

The Arts Council of Big Sky will host its annual Auction for the Arts on Thursday, February 22, 2024, in the Grand Ballroom at the Montage Hotel in Big Sky, Montana. The event — now in its 12th year — includes a fixed-price lottery art sale, live and silent auctions, a quick finish with select artists, food, drinks, and live music.

This fundraiser for one of Big Sky’s oldest nonprofits features distinguished local, regional, and national artists. It supports the council’s mission to enrich the community through artistic experiences and helps to fund educational programs, including the Contribute-What-You-Can art class, which provides accessible and affordable options for participants of all ages.

As a part of this programming, the council debuted a classroom in March of 2022 that includes pottery wheels, two kilns, and space for various art classes. “The new arts classroom has been a tremendous success since it opened, boasting more than 1,000 participants so far,” says Brian Hurlbut, Arts Council of Big Sky executive director. “It’s a true asset to the community and has allowed a wide variety of aspiring artists to take classes.”

Hurlbut says that 40 percent of the art class participants have taken advantage of the lower fees in the Contribute-What-You-Can program. In addition, a third of the art class registrants have donated more to allow others to afford to participate. “Raising additional funds for this program will allow it to continue,” says Hurlbut. “Our goal is to provide access to the arts for everyone.”

Auction tickets are on sale December 8, 2023. The event also includes a weeklong preview of auction items, with an opening reception slated for February 16, 2024. For more information, visit bigskyarts.org.