Approach Charity Auction as a greenhorn

Chuck Yokota · 01-10-2005, 12:52 PM

I had an experience this autumn when I donated a portrait to a public television auction. Although it was listed in their on-line auction catalog along with sample images, it was never mentioned on the air, and wasn't purchased. Since this also happened to a different portrait donation on the same auction, I figured that without a physical artwork in the studio, they didn't quite know how to handle it, and lost it in the shuffle.

October Reader · 01-10-2005, 04:10 PM

Thanks very much for the feedback people - a bit more wind underneath my sail!

I called the organization back and was told no one was available to speak to me and they would have to contact me back. Frankly at this point I am getting the impression of poor organization from them.
I found an alternative gala event next month which happens to be put on by their competition.

It's just as well because I contacted the second event organizer and they came across as being straight forward and they also promised to tell me a bit about their members when we discuss donation details down the road.

According to the second party, there are few other paintings involved already and response to paintings in past auctions has been mixed. I am excited to learn more about this group and have a feeling it may work out to be a potential match if their members are interested in realist works.

For greenhorns interested in auction donations, I am learning the more you know who you are dealing with the more return for your time and effort.

October Reader · 01-10-2005, 04:24 PM

Just a quick note. Nothing like the sound of competition. I received response from the first group within minutes of me telling them about the second event. How interesting!

Apparently the first group is selling donation items on-line now. Also they don't accept partial donations.

Could anyone advise if on-line auction venue with regards to exposure is better or worse than actual life auction? Thank you!

Michele Rushworth · 01-10-2005, 04:36 PM

I would stay away from on-line auctions. Much less exposure and credibility for you -- and no one gets to see your actual painting or sample portrait in person.

October Reader · 01-10-2005, 10:06 PM

Thanks so much Michele! Things are looking up again and I owe many thanks to all of you who extended a helping hand!!

SOG rocks!!!