Thanks Diverseworks!

So yes! I'm now the proud owner of a totally radical Robyn O'Neil drawing that in no way would I am able to afford if it hadn't of been for the genius that is "Luck 'O the Draw," Diverseworks' fundraiser. I purchased a $250 ticket that guaranteed my number would be called in the first 14 drawn numbers at the suggestion of the brilliant Gina Sonderegger. Good investment if you ask me, and this picture is proof of how happy I was/am.

I do however have a little commentary on donating artworks for such functions. As an artist who did donate to this affair, I think on one hand it is a really great thing to be able to support a local institution that you believe in as an financial alternative. The thing for artists to remember though, is be selective in how you donate. This is your livelihood, and non-profits need to respect that. Hopefully this situation is mutually beneficial, where the event supports artists and artists gladly support the organization.

If you are just starting to collect art, auctions like these are a really good way to get your feet wet. There is very little commitment monetarily and you get to choose from a large spectrum of artists, so you are bound to find something that you like. And for $125 (which was the price of a regular ticket for the Diverseworks benefit), or whatever the ridiculously low starting bid auctions ask for might be, you are always getting a bargain. Just make sure it is a reputable institution/organization and not the local high school bake sale. Check out their programming, as it can give you some insight into who might donate.