Lisa Green reports from Sandisfield. The auction action at the second annual Sandisfield Arts Center spring dinner and benefit on Saturday, May 9 proved that, if nothing else, the Sandisfield community is a tight-knit and supportive one. When State Representative. Smitty Pignatelli was unable to make his auctioneering commitment, Mary Anne Grammer and Ben Luxon stepped up to do the honors. When they occasionally missed a guest’s bid during the raucous activity, others called it out so the arts center would gain as much financial support as possible. When a bidding war ensued over a service or sponsorship, the bidders agreed among themselves that they both would contribute and share the winnings. “This is an extraordinary little community," said the stentorian-voiced Luxon. In a twist on the old silent auction, the gala committee decided to offer a pop-up shop prior to the dinner (catered by Chef Adam Manacher) selling items such as books by local authors, ceramics and jewelry by local artists and even an apple cake, all proceeds going to benefit programs and events at this small-but mighty hidden community gem. Above, Alice Boyd, past president now running for Sandisfield Board of Selectmen, and current president Marcella Smith.
Liana Toscanini manages the pop-up shop during the cocktail reception; June Wink, an internationally known potter, in front of her work for sale.
Susie Crofut, former co-president of the arts center, and Mary Anne Grammer, who coordinated the auction.
Patrick Barrett, a town selectman and Ellen Croibier; Paul Van Sickle and Jim Barrett.
Sandy Parisky with Sheila Liberman of Boston and Tolland; Chapin Fish of Wm. Brockman Real Estate and Kevin Fish, co-owners of Farm & Home in Great Barrington.
Jewelry designer Margo Morrison and caterer Patricia Hubbard, who made the flourless chocolate cake for dessert.
Mary Anne Grammer and famed baritone and actor Benjamin Luxon entreat the guests to bid in an entertaining auction; The circa 1892 Sandisfield Arts Center building tucked away in the woods.
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Matteline deVries-Dilling, founder of Lite Brite Neon, one of the evening's honoree of this year's Upstate Benefit adresses the gala from the Caboose's caboose.
- Karen Pearson. Courtesy Art Omi.
Olana senior vice president and landscape curatorMark Prezorski, president Sean Sawyer, The evenings honoree Kristin Gamble and New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett.
- Oxygen House Photo
