Fifty Artworks inspired by the green spaces of York will be auctioned at The Priory Street Centre on Saturday 30 January during Resident's Weekend. The artworks, which include paintings, drawings, felt jewellery, collage mirror frames and photographic prints were all created by local people who took part in the 2009 Seeing Green Project.
Seeing Green, co-ordinated by Arts Action York and York CVS, is an annual community arts project that works with local charities to identify people who are interested in creative activity and are keen to volunteer during the winter months.
The event starts at 2.00pm with the auction at 3.00pm. A professional auctioneer will be on hand to oversee the bidding and York residents are encouraged to come along and pick up a unique piece of art. All proceeds raised on the day will go to the charity York and District Mind, who provide support and advice for people with mental health problems. Michael Beckett, Director of York and District Mind said "A big thank you from York and District Mind to Arts Action York and York CVS and all those people who have helped make the Seeing Green project happen. We know this has had a big impact benefiting people through the therapeutic creation process. By bidding on this auction people will also help benefit local people with close personal experience of mental distress, with your help York and District Mind can support and help more people."
Vanessa Langford of the council's Arts & Culture team said, Seeing Green creative workshops take place throughout November and December and gave vulnerable local people an opportunity to come together with others to combat isolation, learn new skills and make a really positive contribution to their community.
Each year some fantastic pieces of art are produced and the auction which takes place at the end of the project not only raises money for charity but also gives the volunteer artists confidence and a sense of pride. There are no reserves, so people can come along to find out more and leave at the end with a one-of-a-kind piece!
For more information about the project or the auction, please contact Vanessa Langford on 01904 554617 or email Vanessa.Langford@york.gov.uk