Arts Council auctioning a variety of experiences

The North Country Arts Council is calling upon the skills of a strudel maker, a juggler and other crafters and artists for its latest fundraiser.

The council is auctioning "arts experiences" during an online auction.

"It's a little different than your average auction," said arts council board member George D. Stadalski.

"People can purchase these 'experiences' to give as holiday gifts," said arts council president Kari S. Robertson. "It's a great way to encourage involvement in the arts and to fundraise in order to allow for more involvement in the arts."

Closing day for bids is Nov. 30. Winners will be announced Dec. 1

By going to the Web site www.nnyart.org/auction.html people may bid on "arts experiences" such as picture book line editing by Black River author Hope Marston, "juggling to impress" taught by Lindsey Oakes of Canton, potters wheel classes taught by Mrs. Robertson of Rutland Center, a plein aire painting session taught by Dingman Point artist Sherman Ward and an apple strudel baking class taught by Laura Oakes of Watertown.

Each "experience" has a minimum bid.

Mrs. Robertson said artists and craftspeople can still donate their services for the auction.

"At this point, we're just saying, 'Keep them coming,'" she said.

Funds from the auction will go to a planned gallery/education space for the council.

Mr. Stadalski said the space would be a location where the council could host shows, classes, workshops, concerts and other events.

He said the idea for the online auction came from the St. Lawrence County Arts Council, which hosted one.

"We used that as a base," he said.

Those interested in donating services should contact the arts council at webmaster@nnyart.org.