Art Auction Supports the Inclusive Project “Touched by Art”
All 39 works of art from the inclusive project “Touched by Art” were auctioned off at the Reinhard Ernst Museum. All proceeds will go toward the joint project.
Moments of true joy and pride in what has been achieved
The top-selling piece fetched 11,000 euros: the elaborate three-dimensional paper artwork “Palasthotel” by Marion Eichmann. The artist drew inspiration for this meticulously cut piece from the facade of the building where the “Touched by Art” art event took place in April and May. Those who had never experienced a real auction before were able to attend one in the stylish Maki Forum at the Ernst Museum. It was organized by the renowned auction house Christie’s; Prof. Dr. Dirk Boll, head of Christie’s Germany, stood on stage alongside gallery owner Christine Rother-Ulrich and conducted the auction with great charm. There was no need to worry about accidentally bidding on a work while scratching your head: pre-registered bidders had to hold up a numbered paddle. Only then was the next bid accepted. Museum Director Reinhard Ernst and the EVIM Board of Directors also had such a sign on their laps and joined in the bidding.
An Auction Full of Charm and Humor
The auditorium was, as it had been at the preview the evening before, well-attended by prospective buyers and onlookers. Some of the artists were also present again and visibly proud that their works of art were attracting so much interest. The individual paintings were presented on stage with white gloves. Prof. Boll was a master at using plenty of humor to drive up the bidding in incremental steps. Many paintings and sculptures sold for high four-figure amounts, though some were also available for well under 1,000 euros. By the end, all the works had been auctioned off. The proceeds will go toward sustaining the “Touched by Art” project, as the collaborative artistic effort between professionals and Wiesbaden residents from EVIM art studios and other institutions was a great success, according to all those involved. An inclusive project based on equality, which produced beautiful and moving works that will now bring great joy to their buyers. (abp)/ Photos: V. Watschounek)