We’re adamant and ardent fans of the fine arts here at CHC HQ. Even more so when we’re all abuzz about the bounty of amazing artists based right here in our Salty City creating masterful, meaningful, essential touchpoints for people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. For over 30 years, the fine folks at Art Access have been doin’ good in the neighborhood with a mission that’s near and dear to our COLLECTIVE hearts: “Art Access provides equal opportunities to inclusive arts programming for Utahns with disabilities and those with limited access to the arts” including the visual, literary, and performing arts.
Their biggest annual fundraiser is the 300 plates auction held each May, where hundreds of kick-ass local artists create original pieces specifically for the event with a standard 11″ x 10” printing plate format. It’s an amazing opportunity for collectors to buy art by popular Utah creatives at affordable prices. This year’s works were all priced from $85 to just under $400, and attendees in the know go early to scope out and strategize their wish list like gambling junkies on Derby Day [full disclosure: I’ve got three plates proudly hanging in my halls]. Says Nathan Florence, an SLC artist whose work has been snatched up at the auction for over five years, “many of the best artists in the state” participate because “Art Access is an asset to the community as a resource for art to children and people who would otherwise not have these experiences…I really like to support their mission.” Add great food, terrific live music, and plenty of wine and beer to the mix and you’ve got a win-win for a happy crowd every year. Couldn’t attend this time around? Well, a few photos below will give you an idea of what you missed, but you can also still get in on supporting this terrific organization–Friday, June 10th will mark the last day to snag up remaining plates at steep discounts via the website below. But Art Access gallery shows, programs, and classes are available year ‘round.
Art Access | Remaining plates for auction
