Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art Hosts Top-Notch Art Auction for Third Year in a Row.

BOULDER, Colo. -- Highly Acclaimed Artists and Popular Auctioneer Expected to Draw Enthusiastic Crowd For Extraordinary Art and Lively Bidding

The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA), a national producer of innovative performing and visual art, once again will host an evening of "art to vie for" at its third annual contemporary art auction on November 11, 2004.

More than 80 original works of contemporary art -- some created specifically for the auction, others donated by internationally and locally acclaimed artists -- will be sold to the highest bidder in both live and silent auctions held from 6:30-10:30 p.m. at the museum.

The event serves as BMoCA's biggest fundraiser with proceeds to benefit its year-round programs and ongoing success as the only art center of its kind in Boulder County. BMoCA commissions, produces and presents new work in the visual and performing arts on a local, regional and national level.

"We have developed a reputation as the epicenter of Boulder's contemporary art scene," said BMoCA Artistic Director Brandi Mathis. "The auction helps us continue bringing innovative work to the community."

This year's auction offers a selection thought to be significant in today's contemporary art world.

"It's a juried event, unique because of the diversity of the work. Contributors range from well-known, sought-after artists to emerging up-and-comers," said Mathis.

Media offerings include painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry and furniture. Prices range from $100-$6,000.

Longtime Christie's auctioneer Ursula Hermacinski, named "goddess of the gavel" by Food & Wine magazine, will preside over the lively bidding. "Everyone gets wrapped up in the challenge of the bidding when Ursula has the gavel. She's freewheeling and entertaining -- it really adds an extra dimension to the auction," said Clarissa King, event co-chair. "We're lucky to have her again this year. She involves participants and makes it a lot of fun."

"Equally exciting is the action surrounding the silent auction," added King. "Attendees stake out their desired items and compete on paper with one another, bid-for-bid. Over the course of the night, as prices rise, guests strategize when to place their final, hopefully winning, bid."

Artists who have donated work for this year's auction include:

--Internationally acclaimed Jane Hammond, Virginia Maitland and Phyllis Bramson

--Nationally known Pamela Joseph, James Surls, Chuck Forsman, Gayle Crites, Jeanne Quinn, Buff Elting, Tony Ortega, Julian Lethbridge, Kevan Krasnoff, Todd Siler, Andy Katz, Tracy Felix and Sushe Felix

"People come to see the extraordinary art and to enjoy the fun of the bidding," said BMoCA Trustee Jane McMahan. "It's fun -- the tension of the bidding makes for an interesting evening. The auction is fast becoming one of the premier events in Boulder County. "

One of BMoCA's overarching goals is to engage participants in the creative experience. "The auction fits perfectly because it's participatory, engaging and educational," added McMahan. "By the end of the night, not only have you been to a great party, but also learned more about contemporary art, and perhaps bought a favorite piece for your collection."

Each year, the auction is made possible by a broad base of support -- artists donate work, volunteers and staff produce the event, sponsors generously contribute money and community members attend and bring their friends.

Tickets are $75 general admission, $65 BMoCA members, and can be purchased by calling 303-443-2122. Participants are encouraged to purchase early since space is limited.

Creative appetizers, wine and a vodka bar complement the night's entertainment.

The collection can be previewed during the Gallery Crawl First Friday on November 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. A special performance of "Zen Cabaret" will follow in the museum's performing arts venue. Tickets for "Zen Cabaret" are $16 general admission, $14 students and seniors and $12 BMoCA members.

Auction works also can be viewed November 5 through November 11 during regular museum hours: Wednesday through Friday noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

Sponsors for this year's event include the Daily Camera, Sterling Rice Group, Faegre & Benson LLP, St. Julien Hotel, R.W. Baird, West End Wine Shop, Liquor Mart, among others.

About Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA)

The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is a dynamic venue dedicated to the presentation of significant art of our time. Through an innovative program of regional, national and international exhibition and performance, the museum inspires and educates its communities and visitors from around the world to explore the forefront and evolution of contemporary art. Based in Boulder, Colorado, the museum was founded in 1972. For more information, visit BMoCA's Web site at www.bmoca.org or call 303-443-2122.