The CRAG’s black-tie, bi-annual fundraiser returns, offering guests an unmissable elegant affair!
The Campbell River Art Gallery (CRAG) hosted its bi-annual Art Gala on October 19th at the Maritime Heritage Centre; it was a night that brought the community together to celebrate the arts and marked the gallery’s 30th anniversary. Thanks to our generous sponsors, bidders, and attendees, we exceeded our goals and raised over $74,000!
“The Art Gala this year was an amazing time. We want to thank everyone who attended the event, participated in the auction and of course our generous sponsors,” says Sara Lopez Assu, Executive Director of the Campbell River Art Gallery. “It was a beautiful evening reminiscent of big-city style, with delicious food, exquisite art, and most importantly strong community support. This support enables us to continue putting on our impactful local programming like the Art Hive. We can’t wait to do it all again in 2026!”
The theme this year was “Pearls & Prosecco,” and the 130 guests in attendance embraced the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Dressed in glamorous attire, adorned with pearls, and embodying the elegance of the era, attendees made the event a dazzling spectacle.
The evening featured a decadent menu served by More Eatery, extravagant craft cocktails and mocktails by Wild Coast Cocktails, lively music from Typsy Jazz, and of course the show-stopping decor made possible by All-In-One Party Shop and Canadian Tire. The talented Limesoda Photography was on hand and captured the essence of the night, photographing guests as they arrived in style.
Photos by Limesoda Photography
The main event of the night was the live and silent auction, featuring works from artists like Bill & Will Henderson, Jessica & Max Chickite, Rebecca Chaperon, Sonny Assu, Scott Bertram and many many more! There was an incredible response from attendees, who left proudly carrying their new acquisitions. All proceeds go directly to support both the artists and the CRAG’s free programming.
“This year’s live and silent auctions were an incredible showcase of many of our community’s renowned artists,” said Jenelle Pasiechnik, Curator of the Campbell River Art Gallery. “We are so honoured to be able to host this auction, an event that appreciates and displays the local talent on Vancouver Island and throughout B.C. A live auction is always a thrilling event, and we are already looking forward to the next gala.”
The funds raised will directly support the CRAG’s mission to serve the Campbell River community through exhibitions by professional artists and accessible programming. Since the CRAG’s founding, this space has been a cornerstone of the cultural community. It’s a gathering space to create connection, foster open dialogue, break down barriers and showcase local talent. Our team is proud to continue this legacy, and putting on fundraisers like the Art Gala helps to support the important work we do in uplifting Art That Matters.
This event was made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors: MOSAIC, Canadian Tire, We Wai Kai Nation, Wei Wai Kum Nation, More Eatery, All in One Party Shop, River Ink Printing and Signs, Upland Contracting LTD, and Coastal Community Credit Union.
Through the sale of 29 pieces, the Live and Silent Auctions raised $42,000.00. In addition, over $7,000.00 was raised in donations that will go towards the Art Hive Program.
A backgrounder follows, click to expand.
Items sold at Live Auction
Moments Before Twilight (Paradise Meadows) by Anouk Hartwell
At’la’kwis – Hunter of the Woods mask by Bill Henderson
Icarus by David Ellingson
Dancing in the Sky Paddle by Jessica Chickite
Gwa’wina Yellow Cedar Paddle by Karver Everson
Copper Moon by Max Chickite
Peripheral Day Dream by Miss Bumble
Woodcut and Collage Monoprint by Nadine Bariteau
Hare Today Gone Tomorrow by Perrin Sparks
Lagwilda’xw Origin Story by Shawn Decaire
Bird is the Word by Sonny Assu
Yolakwame by Cole Speck
Items Sold at Silent Auction
Spipiyus Woven Blanket by Anja Jane
Gift certificate 2 paper weight classes by Bob Mcleod
Liminal Landscape #02 framed water colour on watercolour paper by Cora Silvestru
Salad bowl & tossers by Gary Stewart
Two Business class round trip tickets donated by Hullo Ferries
Eye Feel Seen by Julie Sabey
Growth by Tapiola Design
RavenSong gift basket donated by Boleyn Media
Wavy Night Super Moon by Rebecca Chaperon
Super Moon Reflecting by Rebecca Chaperon
Tigers eye earrings by Elk and Cove
Seaglass studs & necklace by Elk and Cove
Snake Earrings by Elk and Cove
23-05 by Scott Bertram
Cedar Bench by Curly Burl Woodworks
Framed print, Mug & Dish set by Vivian Sofia Designs
Handmade Dinner Set by Will Dickson Pottery