BY KIRSTEN BOLTON
For ArtSpring
Held every July, ArtSpring’s best known annual fundraiser Treasure Fair has announced it is now actively accepting donated items from the community, but for the first time in several years, it finds itself without a locked-in high-value headliner item prior to opening the call.
Last year’s record-breaking 25th anniversary year auction was significantly enhanced by the inclusion of a donated custom-built 1957 Porsche 365 Speedster replica, which was won by a final bid of $56,000 from a father in Sidney. ArtSpring’s annual goal for Treasure Fair is to raise $55,000.
“With that one generously donated item, it created buzz and allowed Treasure Fair to hit its target within minutes of the website going live,” said former committee chair Catherine Griffiths. “But the real story about last year was that the rest of the auction, comprised of some very special and some very everyday items, attracted another $70,000 of interest.”
Treasure Fair 2024’s $127,000 total may be difficult to duplicate, but volunteer organizers are optimistic there will be a great turnout, intriguing items for all budgets and a positive community spirit vibe.
From furnishings and decor, collectables, holiday destinations, concert tickets, artworks, wines, musical instruments, jewellery, kayaks and sporting equipment, cappuccino makers, experiences and professional services, over 500 items were included in the last auction, starting as low as $20.
“What is unique about this event is that is curated, not a garage sale,” said Griffiths. “Our team evaluates each submission for quality to determine if it would be special or useful or treasured by someone, regardless of price point.”
Treasure Fair has attracted donated items for practical reasons such as decluttering, downsizing or estate clearances, but many clever businesses and professionals donate gift certificates, experiences, or services such as landscaping, gardening advice, accounting, spa treatments or adventure tours as a way to introduce or grow their businesses.
The volunteer Treasure Fair Committee, now led by Janna Zahorodhiuk as long-time chair Griffiths scales back to a support position, has been starting to field inquires and submissions through the Treasure Fair website. The team can then assess, evaluate, photograph and help with transport or storage of items.
When asked about what dream headliner item Treasure Fair hopes to attract, Griffiths is circumspect. “We’ve had a Porsche, a Mercedes, a grand piano so far. Who knows? A sailboat? An Airstream? An unprecedented experience? Sky’s the limit!”
One hundred per cent of funds raised go to supporting ArtSpring, which receives only 10 to 15 per cent of its funding through government grants. Tax receipts can be issued for most donations. Deadline for donations is June 18. Treasure Fair runs July 16 to 19.
For more information about donating or volunteering visit treasurefair.artspring.ca.