School News
The Art Sale Skinny
By Joanne Hinkel
Despite reports of a recession, this year's Holiday Art Sale, featuring original artwork made by SAIC students, brought in seven percent more profit than last year's sale. The Chicago elite decked out in evening wear entered the Grand Ballroom at 112 S. Michigan for the preview party on Thursday, November 15. Tickets for this opportunity to buy artwork, before the sale was open to the public (on the following Friday and Saturday)and mingle with cocktails and food were $30 a pop. Party-goers and the rest of the weekend's attendees proved that they are ready to spend money this holiday season on the greatest gift of all - art. The creations of SAIC students brought in a total of $59,776 in gross sales.
The 13th year of this annual event saw 128 participating student artists selling paintings, photographs, sculptures, textiles, jewelry, ceramics, handbags, scarves, hats and painted fabrics. Prices for most of the pieces were affordable, reportedly under $100. According to a report published by Student Life over 85 percent of the students who had booths sold artwork, twelve of them selling over $1,000 each. Many of the students who didn't sell work made connections with people interested in future commissioned work.
Student Government, one of the sponsors of the event (in addition to SAIC Special Events, the Student Life Office and other departments), took a 15 percent commission on all works sold, which will be put toward preparations for this spring's art sale, as well as to funding various all school events throughout the year.
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