Key West The Newspaper

Tickets are now available for the annual Anne McKee Artist’s Fund fine art auction. Attendees can choose from the work of 62 Florida Keys artists, ranging from renowned masters to emerging talents, at the auction on Sunday, January 31st.

The annual auction raises money for project-based grants to Keys visual, literary and performing artists. This year the doors will open at 6:00 p.m. and the auction will begin at 7:00 p.m. at Fort East Martello on South Roosevelt Boulevard in Key West. Under the guidance of auctioneer Tom Luna, attendees can bid on original paintings, sculpture, photography, fiber art, ceramics, mixed media, jewelry and more.

This annual event is unique among the Keys’ fine art auctions, because it is supported by artists with the sole purpose of benefiting artists. Each participating artist receives 50 percent of the proceeds from the sale of his or her work, while the McKee Fund receives the remainder to award to Keys artists for select projects. Founded by longtime Key West resident Anne McKee, the not-for-profit fund has awarded more than $245,000 since 1994. Artist works will be displayed for viewing at Fort East Martello from January25th until the auction. Images of the works can also be seen on the Anne McKee Artist’s Fund Facebook page.

A ticket to the auction includes an open bar, gourmet hors d’oeuvres from New York Pasta Garden as well as champagne and desserts. There is plenty of free parking. Tickets are $35 per person at www.keystix.com and at the door the night of the event. For more information about the Anne McKee Artists Fund and its annual auction and artist grants, visit www.mckeefund.org.