Katelin Batten ’12 (Integrated Studio Arts major, Painting minor) loved getting her art into the community at the Student/Alumni Art Sale.
And, based on the event’s success, the public was equally excited to have the unique opportunity to purchase works by established professionals and emerging artists and designers, like Batten.
Batten enjoyed seeing people react to her work and, by selling some pieces, learned there is demand for her art. She thinks the sale gives students a great place to promote themselves.
“It’s a mutually beneficial situation for students, alumni and art collectors or buyers,” Batten said.
She thought the students created very distinctive works for the event in 2010 and feels that the sale gives buyers a golden opportunity to find truly unique pieces at good prices.
The 2011 Student/Alumni Art Sale, which featured works across all media created by MIAD students and alumni, took place during October Gallery Night/Day on Friday, October 21 from 5 – 10 p.m. and Saturday, October 22 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. For $20, patrons had the opportunity to see the works in advance at a special Preview Party on Thursday, October 20. Proceeds from the sale benefitted the participating artists and designers.
MIAD Trustee Jason Allen, a partner with Foley & Lardner LLP, attended last year’s event. He enjoyed the event’s atmosphere, which was aided by refreshments and a DJ, and said the “fantastic selection” of works swayed him into purchasing two pieces.
“Even if you’re not in the market for art, it’s still a nice event,” said Allen. “Support students and alumni, talk to artists about their pieces and just check out the college. It’s a nice night out.”
The event coincided with Parent/Partner Day and the Alumni Reunion Weekend, creating even more excitement at the school.
Paula Christensen ’85 (Illustration) loved seeing the interaction between students and alumni at the event. The programming director and director of the arts for the North Shore Academy of the Arts sold several pieces during the sale in 2010.
Christensen works on mixed-media paintings and wearable art from her studio Paula’s Palette. The opportunity to connect with her alma mater through the sale excited her most about the event.
“It’s fun to be engaged in MIAD, and to see it grow from what it was in 1985. There’s been such tremendous growth,” Christensen said. “The sale is a great way to come back to the school. I would encourage even more people to participate. It’s well promoted and well attended.”
And she thinks the quantity and range of art available sets the event apart from others of its type.
“If you come with an open mind, you’re going to find a good array of artwork across a range of styles,” Christensen said. “You have a pretty good chance of finding something that suits you.”
The Student/Alumni Art Sale features works across all media created by MIAD students and alumni.
