ANNE MCKEE ARTISTS FUND AUCTION

 
 
Miriam B. Good Award winner, William Welch, Anne McKee founding member of the board and Roberta DePiero, President

Miriam B. Good Award winner, William Welch, Anne McKee founding member of the board                                                 and Roberta DePiero, President

Attendees can choose from the work of 63 Florida Keys artists, ranging from renowned masters to emerging talents, at the Anne McKee Artists Fund fine art auction Saturday, Feb. 15th.

The annual auction and its associated gala raise money for project-based grants to Keys visual, literary and performing artists. This year the auction gala will begin at 6:00 p.m. at The Oldest House, 322 Duval Street, Old Town Key West. Under the guidance of auctioneer Tom Luna, attendees can bid on original paintings, sculpture, photography, fiber art, ceramics, mixed media, jewelry and more.

“This annual event is unique among the Keys’ fine art auctions, because it is supported by artists with the sole purpose of benefiting artists,” said Roberta DePiero, president of the Anne McKee Artists Fund’s volunteer board of directors. “This results in a magical blend of work by premier and emerging artists combined into an exquisite, unusual auction.”

Each participating artist receives 50 percent of the proceeds from the sale of his or her work, while the McKee Fund receives the remainder to award to Keys artists for select projects. Founded by longtime Key West resident Anne McKee, the not-for-profit fund has awarded more than $ 196,000 since 1994.

As well as fine artwork, attractions at the auction include an open bar, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and champagne. Parking spots in front of The Oldest House will be reserved to assist patrons with art pick-up after the auction.

Tickets are $ 30 per person at the door, and can also be purchased in advance at www.KeysTix.org through 2 pm on Friday Feb. 14. Attendees are encouraged to reserve their seats in advance via www.KeysTix.org. For more information about the Anne McKee Artists Fund and its annual auction and artist grants, visit www.mckeefund.org.