Have a Chair to Benefit Silco Restoration, August 5
Across America, towns have invited their leading artists to paint sculpted ponies, cattle, flying pigs, even Mr. Potato Head and Snoopy. When Silver City's MainStreet Project came up with an artistic fundraising idea to help restore the historic Silco Theater, though, it settled on something a little more, well, comfortable—not to mention appropriate to the theatrical theme. So on Saturday, August 5, the Silco will host an auction of director's chairs painted by artists from across the community and around the region.
More than 40 artists have contributed chairs, ranging from the whimsical—Albert Einstein on the chair seat, sticking his tongue out—to decorative to serious artistic statements on peace and justice. Among the noted Silver City artists who've taken brush—or other artistic media—to chairs are Lois Duffy, Diana Leyba, Casey Luria, Kris Cameron, Luanne Brooten and Pat Bouchard. Las Cruces artists Michelle Arterburn and Gabriella Denton as well as Colorado painter Judith Hilmer have also contributed chair creations.
The chairs will all be sold at a "Chair-ity" Auction held at the Silco, with veteran auctioneer Lynn Geyer handling the gavel. The gala evening will start with a preview at 6:30 p.m., with punch and an array of gourmet appetizers. Then bidding begins at 7:30 p.m. Chairs for the event have been sponsored by Manzanita Ridge and Desert Exposure.
All proceeds will benefit the Silco Theater Rehabilitation Project. Silver City's historic Silco Theater at 311 N. Bullard St. is an architectural and municipal treasure preserved from just after the dark days of the Great Depression. Built in 1923, the Silco has retained much of its original charm and architecture. In more than 90 years on Bullard Street, the Silco served as a movie theater under the Liberty Theater and, beginning in 1926, the Silco Theater names. Its restoration by the MainStreet Project aims to serve as a catalyst for further growth and development throughout historic downtown Silver City.
Tickets for the August 5 auction, which include complimentary beverages and appetizers and the chance to bid on a collectible chair, cost $5. Tickets are available in Silver City at Alotta Gelato, Art and Conversation/Curious Kumquat, Home Furniture and the Silco Confectionary and the MainStreet Office in the Silco. Space is limited, so advance ticket purchase is recommended; as available, tickets will also be sold at the door.
For more information, contact the MainStreet Project at 534-1700, email MainStreet@gilanet.com, or see www.silcotheater.com.