Art for Art’s sake: Mayor Jeremy Fey and family enjoying the evening at the Gilpin Arts Association on Saturday, November 18.[/caption]

The Gilpin Arts Association celebrated its 77th year in style with their Annual Silent Auction Fundraiser held at Washington Hall in Central City. The successful event, attended by 78 art enthusiasts and association members, showcased 79 unique items generously donated to support the gallery. They were able to raise $4,758.

The Board of Directors, Eric Miller, President, Michele Roussel, Vice President, Barbara Thielemann, Corresponding Secretary, Jeremy Fey, Trustee, Micki Moss, Trustee, Julianna Korman, Trustee, Robby Wicks, Trustee, and Ernest Van Deuchen, Treasurer, attended the event. Thanks goes to the volunteers who helped with the fundraiser: Danae Beaudette, Larry Sanchez, and Kathleen Henningsen.

Located upstairs in the historic Washington Hall, the Gilpin Arts Association has been a pillar of the Central City arts community, promoting creativity and providing a platform for local artists for nearly eight decades.

This year’s fundraiser, which welcomed members of the Art Association at an affordable annual fee of $35, raised funds exclusively for the gallery’s ongoing initiatives. The attendees enjoyed the opportunity to bid on a diverse array of items, ranging from art pieces to accessories.

Notable contributions to the auction included a beautiful purse donated by Mountain Poppy Boutique, a collection of charming greeting cards, and an original watercolor masterpiece. The lucky winner of this collection expressed delight at the quality of the pieces.

Guests took part in a potluck, featuring chicken masala, cheese, crackers, cookies, and hummus. The atmosphere buzzed as attendees mingled, shared stories, and enjoyed the celebration of art in the heart of Central City.

Miller, the President of the Arts Gallery, took the stage to announce the winners, with Mayor Jeremy Fey of Central City emerging as a big winner, securing six coveted items. The community spirit was evident, and the success of the event was attributed to the support of sponsors like Hi Heats & Sweets, JKQ BBQ, Dostal Alley, Century Casino, Maverick Gaming Grand Z, Monarch Casino, City of Central, Spice & Tea Exchange, Mountain Poppy, Brandon Squige Johnson, and Annie Oakley’s.

Following the silent auction, many residents continued the frivolity by participating in the Turkey Trot at the Elks Lodge just down the street. The Turkey Trot served as a fundraiser for the Belvidere Theater restoration, featuring a lively atmosphere with a DJ and dancing.

The Gilpin Arts Association Annual Silent Auction Fundraiser proved to be a delightful evening, combining the love for art with community bonding. As the association continues its legacy into the 78th year, the Central City art scene remains vibrant and is thriving.

The Gilpin Arts Association is located at 117 Eureka Street, Central City, Colorado. For more information call 303-582-5952 or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/GilpinCountyArtsAssociation/.