New fundraiser format excites patrons, artists

It was a toss-up between patrons and artists on who was happier with the Craven Arts Council’s new format for its annual auction fundraiser at the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center.

The “Arts Gone Live” show Friday night gave those attending the option of casual dress, but it also featured more than two dozen contributing artists doing work on site.

Dave and Tina Maybee of New Bern were looking and considering making a purchase during the silent auction format, featuring the contributed works of more than 70 artists. They said seeing many of the artists in action was an added plus for the show.

Artists such as potter Ben Watford were happy to share their crafts with the attendees, who strolled though the main first-floor banquet room, amid live music and catered food.

“This is good for the artists,” Watford said. “These are slow times for artists, no matter who you are. One of the last things people will buy is art. They are buying necessities.”

People came to the show for many reasons — to support the council, look for art to purchase and even make their own.

Carolyn Sleeper of Washington, N.C., was among a line of people who participated in a project called “Drip Your Own Masterpiece.” With assistance from both Art and Materials and Ballantyne’s of New Bern, patrons could make a drip abstract for $20 and get a framing discount.

“We wanted those attending to have the opportunity to experience the feeling of making art,” said Sandy Bruno of the arts council.

Jim O’Daniel of Trent Woods was busy making the rounds, creating another form of art with his camera.

“This is for my Facebook,” he laughed. “I have friends interested in seeing this. And, it’s fun seeing the artists working. It’s live.”

Rich Daniels, who has an art glass gallery in Pollocksville, was at the helm of a potter’s wheel Friday night. He took up pottery three years ago.

“It is such an honor to be part of this,” he said, pausing from several intense minutes as he shaped a pot. “It is amazing how much talent there is here and this is a good venue to see what they have here and in Eastern North Carolina.”

Kate Wernersbach, a New York native, now lives in New Bern and described herself as “an aspiring artist.”

She came to the show to view techniques and talk with artists.

“It helps me get ideas for my art, and to actually see the beginnings of the work and not just the final product,” she said.

Charlie Hall can be reached at 252-635-5667 or chall@freedomenc.com.