33rd Anniversary Gala and Art Auction: Merzbau

Description:

Western Front’s 33rd Anniversary Gala and Art Auction took its inspiration from German avant-garde artist Kurt Schwitters, who turned his living environment into an ever evolving artwork called Merzbau, apropos for Western Front’s tradition of dissolving the boundaries between art and life.

The event featured a catered dinner by Pan-O-Pan, special cocktails and wine by Fort Wine Co., a musical performance by Maquam—the ensemble of Gordon Grdina, Jeremy Holmes, Liam MacDonald, Jesse Zubot— and a live auction of works donated by over twenty artists.

The auction featured works by Sabine Bitter and Helmut Weber, Neil Campbell, Eric Deis, Jeremy Deller, Sara Diamond, Stan Douglas, Michael Drebert, Jimmie Durham, Angus Ferguson, Renée Gouin, Allison Hrabluik, Vishal Jugdeo, Brian Jungen, Liz Magor, Luanne Martineau, Elizabeth McIntosh, Julie Morstad, Al Neil, Gailan Ngan, Heather Passmore, Marina Roy, Jayce Salloum, Igor Santizo, Ken Singer, Ian Skedd, and Jeremy Isao Speier.

A special portfolio of four signed posters by Clint Burnham, Igor Santizo, Ron Terada, Jason McLean created for Western Front were also auctioned. 

Proceeds from the auction supported Western Front’s year-round art and music programs. A preview of the works took place in the Grand Luxe Hall on Mar 1, 2006.

Presented with support from Chernoff Fine Art Framing, Denbigh Design, Summerhill Pyramid Winery, Flower Factory, Opus Framing and Art Supplies, and Les Amis du Fromage.

Documents:

• 33rd Anniversary Gala and Art Auction: Merzbau brochure (2006).