Art for a Purpose celebrates May 8 with big sale at new location
Art for a Purpose is celebrating its new location with a big sale and a gala reception. Nearly 100 works of art are currently available - some of which have been reduced by as much as 80 percent. The new gallery, inside the Lewes office of Ocean Atlantic Sotheby’s International Realty, is at 102 Savannah Road across from Striper Bites restaurant.
The public is invited to an opening gala from 4 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 8, when 100 percent of all sales will benefit nonprofits throughout Lewes, Rehoboth Beach and as many as six other states. In celebration of this opening, 10 percent of the purchase price will be donated to the charity of the purchaser’s choosing.
From a fierce and colorful hand-carved armadillo from Mexico to beautiful antique oils, wildlife-themed pieces and tranquil landscapes, the featured art offers several selections to suit everyone’s taste and style. The serious art collector also has many choices including a lighted luminaire sculpture by Erté, an original oil painting by the famous Haitian painter Préfète Duffaut, or even a beautiful rendition of a languid woman in belle époque attire by famed Brazilian artist Guilherme de Faria.
“We are so grateful for the full support of Kathleen Schell and the great folks at Ocean Atlantic Sotheby’s International Realty,” said Midge Smith, gallery director. “They have been continuous supporters of the gallery from the beginning and have hosted several receptions to promote the gallery’s charitable efforts. And now, the gallery would not be open had Kathleen and her partner Justin Healy not made their entire office available to showcase the gallery’s art.”
Art for a Purpose opened its doors with the unique mission of bringing art and philanthropy together. The nonprofit organization accepts works of art directly from donors, sells the art and then distributes proceeds of the sales directly to charitable organizations for their unrestricted use.
Smith noted, “It’s very rewarding to operate as a conduit for artwork to change hands, be enjoyed by new owners and to direct the proceeds to organizations doing good work in our communities.” So far, more than 16 organizations in six states have benefited from gallery sales.
Join Smith at the opening gala reception May 8 or come for a self-guided tour at any time. The Ocean Atlantic Sotheby’s office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
