Nonprofit Fundraising

Fundraising with an Art Auction

Art auctions can build community, draw new supporters, and be a lot of fun

Art purchased from a nonprofit fundraising event — Photo credit: Author

My favorite type of fundraising event is an art auction. I have loved attending nonprofit art auctions for about 30 years. With talk in our world of nonprofit fundraising that the big gala or large fundraising special event is dead, I offer you thoughts about an event that can build community, support local artists, and raise vital funds for your mission.

All in one night!

Plus they can be a lot of fun.

Of course, as in any fundraising event, an art auction requires a lot of work. That means you need to have capacity of your team, board, and volunteers. From creating a great collection of art to sell to planning the event itself and filling the room, there is a lot to do.

It’s all worth it. Done well, your fundraising art auction can be a wonderful night out while introducing your supporters to local artists and adding a revenue line item to your budget.

There are a few things to consider when planning your auction. First is how you will approach artists. As we want to honor the work of the artist, I find it the right way to do things is by offering a percentage of the sale of the…