Ritzville Adams County Journal, December 4, 2008

RDDA’s Cowboy Christmas Art Auction Saturday

A new addition to the traditional holiday opener is the 2008 Cowboy Christmas Art Auction set for this Saturday, Dec. 6, at the C. J. Newland American Legion Hall.

More than $14,000 in original and limited edition paintings, bronze sculpture and metal art are on tap during the live auction, which features 14 limited edition prints and 26 pieces of original artwork.

The Ritzville Downtown Development Association is sponsoring the semi-formal gala with a cowboy flair. Attendees are encouraged to wear their best western attire.

Proceeds from the evening event will benefit the Historic Ritzville Days Western Art Show held on Memorial Day weekend.

A total of 37 artists participated in the 2008 show, which is sponsored by the RDDA, and agreed to donate art for the non-profit group to use as a fundraiser.

Paul Newman of Zillah, Wash., will serve as the live auctioneer for this event. Newman has served as the fine art auctioneer for the Ellensburg National Art Show during the past two years.

He is well known in the Yakima Valley for his efforts with the Toppenish Mural Society, where he has served as the auctioneer for the mural society’s annual art auction for several years.

Holiday décor with a country theme will transform the hall into a winter wonderland with a rustic country look.

Handmade pinecone baskets filled with a poinsettia will serve as centerpieces at each of the tables as well as door prizes during the gala.

Raffle tickets are available to purchase at the event to select the winner of six framed and autographed 2008 event posters that feature artwork by Sherryl Evans.

Three other framed and autographed posters with original artwork by 2008 art show participants Anita Klein, Jack Fordyce and Joel Olson on the back are included in the live auction.

The event begins at 5 p.m. with a social gathering and art preview until 6:30 p.m. The live auction starts at 6:30 p.m.

A full menu of ‘Western Grub’ will include “cowboy caviar,” spicy shrimp skewers, honey barbecue chicken wings, buffalo sausage, barbecued ribs, Santa Fe wraps, spiced nuts, cowboy cookies and more. Whisperin’ Palms is providing a no-host bar.

Nevada Slim and Cimarron Sue, a country and western singing duo, will perform during the social hour and art preview.

Tickets are $10 per person and are available at the door in addition to Ritzville Drug, The Hair Center, Sunny Spot Floral and Gifts, Cow Creek Mercantile and The Ritzville Adams County Journal.