The MFoA Annnual Art Auction and Wine Tasting will begin with a Silent Auction at 5:00 PM, Saturday, May 1, in historic Abbot Hall. Auction goers will enjoy hors d’oeuvres by Dario's Catering; desserts by Edible Arrangements, Starlight Creatives, and Harbor Sweets and classical guitar music by Brian Rolland. Three talented artists will demonstrate their artistry: Martha Quigley, painter of nautical themes; Patricia De Carlo Baker, Nantucket Basket weaving; and Pam Haley, jewelry designer.

Once again, the charming and knowledgeable Gene Arnould of Arnould Gallery & Framery will be our auctioneer, beginning the Live Auction at 7:30 PM. Items to be auctioned will include unique original art; jewelry; gift baskets; gourmet food and wine; floral arrangements; professional services; concert and theatre tickets; and gift certificates to specialty shops, inns, and restaurants.

Beginning April 16, invitations will be available for an advance donation of $15 at Arnould Gallery & Framery (111 Washington Street), Manhattan Sandwich Company (1 Bessom Street, Village Plaza), and Irresistibles (50 Atlantic Avenue). Admittance to the Art Auction, at the door, will be for a donation of $20.

Plans are in place for the Marblehead Festival of Arts Annual Art Auction. Proceeds from this event help support the summer Arts Festival. Our Auction is known for the quality and representation of outstanding local artists. We look forward to your donation of an art piece, an original craft, or a business service to support us in this major Festival fundraising effort.

People attending the Auction are eager to bid on original art as well as a wide array of items that may include gift baskets; gourmet food and wine; floral arrangements; professional services; concert, theater, or sporting event ticket; and gift certificates to specialty shops, inns, and restaurants. We welcome creative ideas for donations that will draw interest to distinct products or services. Your name will appear in our printed Art Auction Program; and your contribution, in the amount of the winning bid, will be applied to your Festival Sponsorship Level, and will be acknowledged in the printed Festival Program distributed to several thousand summer Festival attendees.