Virtual event aims to raise funds for operations and programs
The Friends of the University of Mississippi Museum aren’t able to gather this fall beneath the lights of Rowan Oak for the annual Harvest Supper, but the group is coming together through an extraordinary online art sale in progress through Thursday, November 12, 2020.
This year, the traditional Harvest Supper Art Auction is being replaced with a 72-hour online Pop-Up Art Sale, offering prospective buyers an opportunity to collect pieces from eight of the South’s most acclaimed artists. The sale is open to everyone.
To see and purchase items on sale, visit https://www.umfriendsofthemuseum.com.
“This will not be a traditional bidding auction, but rather the unique chance to purchase fine art at a fixed price,” said Medora Justus, Harvest Supper co-chair. “The proceeds from sales will go toward the continued support of programming for the University of Mississippi Museum and Historic Houses.”
The group hopes to sell all the pieces listed, Justus said.
“We are trying to get as close as we can to what is raised at Harvest Supper in the silent auction,” she said. “Harvest Supper is the only fundraising event that Friends of the Museum and Historic Houses has. With that event cancelled for 2020, we are doing our best to raise funds and support our mission statement.
“We also view the art sale as a way for the community and supporters of the museum to continue to be engaged with the museum and art community as a whole.”
The museum and its programs are as important as ever before, said Susan Flowers, another Harvest Supper co-chair.
“The museum’s creative uses of online programming for artists’ lectures, as well as children and family activities, are sustaining us while staying at home,” Flowers said. “The beauty of being able to walk the Bailey Woods Trail or among the cedars at Rowan Oak is a much-needed respite from day to day.
“Friends of the Museum works hard to support these resources for the university, the Oxford community and all who visit.”
The Friends of the Museum supports the activities and acquisitions of the University Museum and Historic Houses through advocacy, fundraising and special programming.
By Edwin B. Smith
