Buying a piece of original artwork is a special experience that can bring life-long pleasure.
Tonight there's an opportunity to make that purchase, beautify your surroundings and support the arts in Barrie.
More than 200 works of art are up for grabs at the MacLaren Art Centre at the annual Silent Art Auction, featuring sculptures and paintings from 150 artists in three galleries.
The event attracts artists from across our region and beyond and includes a wall of art from Georgian College students.
Artists contribute no more than two pieces of art and can receive either 50 percent of what it sold for or a full tax receipt for the value.
"I kind of accumulate my list of artists and I always get new ones," said Sheila Delaney, Development Associate.
Delaney started volunteering at the MacLaren Art Centre in1991 and has been involved ever since.
Last year, over $100,000 worth of work was sold at the Silent Auction and proceeds go towards programs at the Centre.
Tickets are $50 and include hors d'oeuvres and desserts by some of Barrie's finest chefs.
Delaney says our region is filled with talented people who are inspired by the beauty of the local landscape.
Her mother was an artist along with her sister, who owns a gallery.
Delaney says she inherited an eye for art.
"Don't ask me to draw you a picture but I can tell you what is good," she said.
Tickets are still available and the event runs from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
