A Knight with the Arts: Vashon Allied Arts 2013 Art Auction

sts take heed! On September 27 and 28, the Vashon Allied Arts parking lot will be transformed into the magical world of Camelot. A Knight with the Arts offers two nights of renaissance-themed festivities, all to benefit the arts on Vashon. The VAA Art Auction is one of Vashon’s most highly anticipated parties of the year, and this year promises to exceed expectations. There are many additions to enhance the auction experience this year. Steffon Moody and his merry band of Mummers will entertain each night and auction attendees can strike their best medieval poses in a distinctly 21st century photo booth, creating a lasting memento of their night in Camelot. There will be a light-hearted "Crowns and Britches" competition for the chance to win a Microsoft Surface. And, of course, more than 140 works of art and a plethora of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
 
As always, the food and drink will be fabulous. Friday night will feature scrumptious meat and vegetarian pies from 314PIE accompanied by fresh local greens. The Friday night meal will culminate with the ever-popular dessert dash, with mouthwatering treats from the Island’s best pastry chefs. Saturday night will start with the signature Merlin’s Martinis and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a full sit-down dinner catered by The Hardware Store Restaurant.
 
The auction promises a wealth of entertainment, but the centerpiece of the event is the art, and this year Island artists have outdone themselves. Each year, VAA commissions six artists to create works of art especially for the auction. For 2013, these pieces are as varied as the Island artists who created them. From the delicate sparkle of a Swarovski pearl necklace to the silky smooth surface of a polished Black Walnut table and a richly textured photograph that looks like an abstract painting, each work of art reflects the artists’ deep personal connection to their materials and mediums. The commissioned artists this year are Paula Allegrini (woodworking), Rose Belknap (painting), William Dacus (woodworking), Leslie Wu (pastel on paper), Betty Gardner (jewelry) and Debra Paulsen (photography).
 
Auction bidders will be wowed by a collaborative work entitled "Elements: Reflections by Vashon Island Artists," an art book created by 15 of Vashon’s most well-known artists. The project was coordinated by nationally recognized book artists Suzanne Moore and Donald Glaister, who also hand-bound the book.
 
All those who believe that the arts form the heart of a community are invited to don their best Lancelot and Lady Guinevere costumes (or not), and support the arts by spending a Knight with the Arts!