MEMPHIS, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) — There are more than 500 pieces of artwork that are up for sale this weekend as a historic Memphis art institute prepares to close. The Memphis College of Art announced it will close this spring after its last students graduate after first opening in 1936.
All week, staff at MCA have beenpreparing and hanging pieces for a massive sale and auction of its artcollection.
On Saturday, MCA will host its “Finders Keepers” sale and auction where it will sell off more than 500 pieces. The sale begins at 6 p.m. with a live auction to follow at 8 p.m.
Olivia Wall, MCA Coordinator ofExternal Engagement, said she has spent the last year going through the artcollection to curate the sale.
“Although, it’s sad to see allthese artworks leave the building and leave its home at MCA, it’s going toother homes that are going to appreciate it and love it and keep MCA alive,”Wall said.
Wall said there is a widevariety of art pieces for sale: tapestries, paintings, sculptures, prints andphotography.
The majority of pieces, MCAsaid, will range from $20 to $100 but there will also be high-end items up forauction.
The auction will include pieces from artists like Burton Callicott, one of the school’s founders.
“It’s a great way to be exposed to a lot of art. A lot of art that hasn’t been seen in years. A lot of art that is by prominent Memphians and people that spent a lot of their life in Memphis but also it’s a great way to add to your art collection,” Wall said.
The money raised from the sale will go towards current operational expenses for the last group of students to graduate in May, MCA said.
MCA will close for good following its May 9th graduation.
Artwork for sale will be available during the following times:
- Opening Reception: Saturday, January 25 from 6-9pm with a Live Auction at 8pm
- Monday, January 27 10am-4pm
- Tuesday, January 28 10am-4pm
- Wednesday, January 29 10am-8pm (extended hours)
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