Norma Holland, anchor of 13 WHAM News entertains the crowd during the Gallery r Art Auction Fundraiser.
Eric Drummond

Partnering with The Strathallan Hotel, Gallery r’s ninth annual gala event celebrated work by RIT faculty, students, alumni and friends. Each ticket, priced at $109, admitted two guests who received one work of art each, while permitting gratuitous wining and dining among some of Rochester’s most prestigious art patrons. After checking my coat and bag, I quickly tried to blend in. However, my informal appearance (blue jeans and black notebook) made me easy to spot amidst the well-dressed and well-to-do guests.

Zerbe Sodervick, Art Coordinator for Gallery r and the person in charge of Extended Studies in Art at RIT stated, “Through this event, we’re trying to create awareness of student and faculty art [while] bringing together family and friends.”

In the moments before the event started, I spoke to Rochester’s Channel 13 news anchor, Norma Holland, who appeared exceedingly excited and honored to be there. Despite being a local celebrity, she stated, “I use that term very loosely…the talent is clearly around the room.”

The large and dimly lit room was truly timeless in appearance. Filled with guests who were talking and laughing, all stopped to admire each of the 76 pieces of art, which were delicately laid out on three tables that encircled the room. This event has had a long history of success and support, as Sodervich explained in her introduction. All guests quieted their conversations and listened intently as the event began. “My job is straightforward. Thank you to the individuals who make this happen. I’m honored to work in a university that has such terrific support, a real learning laboratory where I work with outstanding students and faculty. There are so many generous people who have been helping since the opening of this institution.” Norma Holland, who gave a comedic introduction, caused many to laugh. “I love art and I married an artist. However, I’m not going to lie. My idea of art used to be Bed, Bath & Beyond. But I’ve grown to appreciate good art!” she said. “It’s great to get out, meet people, and support local artists.”

Patrons pick up their new pieces of art after the auction has ended.
Eric Drummond

The art-as-parting-gift was chosen in the following manner: Tickets were placed in a bowl and then guests looked at the artwork, noting which ones interested them most by placing them in a hierarchy. Guests would raise their hand after listening and watching for their ticket to be drawn. They also paid careful attention to pieces which they themselves had hoped to go home with. In this approach, there were frequent moans, grumbling, and laughter as tickets were announced. This continued throughout the evening until all art was eventually chosen. There was continuous light comedy, as some guests would sing the Jeopardy theme as they waited for certain patrons to be found.

The original idea of this benefit was said by RIT Printmaking Professor Keith Howard to have started in Vancouver, Canada. “Guests would get together and raise gigantic sums of money, having open access to all artists.”

One RIT student whose work was chosen in the benefit, third year Fine Arts Studio major Shawna Boynton stated, “Gallery r gave me my first commission. I met people through them, which inspired me to come tonight to give back to them, because they helped me.” As people gathered their belongings and left for their cars, I felt as if I had been part of something unique. The generous patronage and respect paid towards toward the RIT community of artists that evening was well earned and certainly felt by everyone who attended.

Next time, I’ll have to bring my dinner jacket.