The Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s Annual Fall Fundraiser is an object lesson in the difference between scale and scope: it’s an art sale of pieces that are each no larger than 12 inches in any dimension, but within that framework, all of creation is fair game. Freshly created minor works by 150 terrifically skilled Oklahoma artists will all be up for grabs September 19 in Science Museum Oklahoma at the 25th annual 12 x 12 event.
Photos, sculptures and paintings in genres of every description fill this trove of tiny treasures – each square-foot-sized piece is up for sale in an auction that is both silent and blind, meaning bids are placed in an envelope and would-be owners will not know what anyone else might have bid. On the other hand, must-be owners who can’t bear the thought of losing out to another may use the “Buy It Now” pre-set price to trump the auction.
For those aesthetes not desirous of adding to their collections, the event is still excellent entertainment; attendees can purchase $5 chances to win prize packages, and enjoy touring the art and listening to live music, all while sampling a taste of the city via hors d’oeuvres and sweets provided by more than 30 popular local restaurants and a cash bar hosted by LOCAL of Norman.
The silver showcase that is 2014’s 12 x 12 raises funds for the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition to help artists throughout the state realize their potential and their power to enrich communities by funding programs, education and exposure. Over 1,000 supporters attended last year’s event, proving that a show based on small works can be and is a big, big deal.
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