Where can you buy incredible original art for just $45? There’s only one place — at Muskoka Arts & Crafts’ (MAC) Who Art Thou: A Mystery Art Sale, starting Nov. 20.
Now in its fifth year, Who Art Thou quickly became a popular annual event and a surefire hit. For one week, MAC’s Chapel Gallery teems with mystery, intrigue and fun. Who Art Thou is MAC’s event to raise funds for the organization, promote its members and make one-of-a-kind art accessible to the public.
Well over 100 MAC members have created and donated hundreds of original paintings. The eight-by-10-inch unframed canvases all sell for the same amount — $45 plus taxes.
But, there’s a twist to the sale. The paintings are signed only on the back and people buy each piece on the basis of what they like. It may be an upcoming artist or a painting by one who is established and well known.
“For newer artists, it’s a great way to have their work seen, appreciated and purchased,” said Elene Freer, curator/co-ordinator for MAC. “In painting these canvases, some of our members have stepped outside their customary painting styles and media to experiment with new techniques.”
Once a painting is sold, the buyer learns the identity of the artist, and that’s one of the great and exciting things about the sale — people are buying the art they like.
On Thursday evening, customers can have their purchases instantly framed by North Art Supplies, which will be bringing a selection of frames. Framing costs just $30 plus taxes. For every frame sold, North Art Supplies will donate $5 back to Muskoka Arts & Crafts.
A preview of all the art takes place from Tuesday, Nov. 18 until Thursday, Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. The sale starts on Thursday evening from 7 to 9 p.m., with the doors opening at 6:30 p.m. The sale continues again on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.
Chapel Gallery is located in Bracebridge at 15 King St. For information, call Muskoka Arts & Crafts at 705-645-5501 or visit their website at www.muskokaartsandcrafts.com.