More than 170 artists will showcase work at 12x12 on Friday, making it the largest event in its 26-year history.
Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC) expanded the annual fundraiser due to its popularity.
“Last year, we sold 144 of 150 pieces submitted,” said Holly Moye, OVAC executive director.
And since each presenter who sold a work was invited back, Moye said the organization created more slots to feature new and up-and-coming artists.
Blind and silent bids start at $175 for each 12-inch by 12-inch piece, and artists usually share one-half of each sale (or more) with the coalition.
“Not only is the art affordable, but [its size] fits pretty easily into anyone’s home,” Moye said. “Most people have that kind of space available.”
If bidders are afraid they might lose a piece they especially like, they can also purchase it outright with a “buy it now” option.
Lauren Scarpello, OVAC associate director, said 12x12 generates around 20 percent of the nonprofit’s annual budget. As the only “steady source” of artist-related grants in the state, it has generated almost $40,000 to help fund local artists and projects, Moye said.
Annually, OVAC furthers the education, exposure and funding of more than 1,700 artists, connects close to 25,000 people to their work and teaches 3,500 youth via publications and events. Friday’s event enables Oklahomans to meet and mingle with the state’s talented artist community in ways traditional gallery shows don’t accommodate.
First, there are no restrictions put upon the visual art other than its size. Scarpello said artists work in mediums such as painting, jewelry, mixed media, sculpture, fabric, knitting, photography and ceramics.
Live music also welcomes guests as they browse and bid. Performances by singer-songwriter Jamie Bramble and jazz-pop-Americana amalgam Harumph and food from around 30 local eateries are included in the ticket price. A cash bar also is available.
Learn more at ovac-ok.org.
Print Headline: No squares, The popular 12x12 annual fundraiser and art exhibition celebrates its biggest event yet with more than 170 artists.
