IC Museum to host ‘Ales & Art’

CASPIAN — The Iron County Historical Museum will host “Ales & Art” on Saturday, June 12 from 2-6 p.m.
    The event will include a silent auction of canoe paddles that have been painted or carved by local artists. Additionally, event attendees will enjoy a showcase of local artwork in the form of pottery, photography, handmade jewelry, paintings and other media.
    Tours of the Lee LeBlanc Memorial Art Gallery and the Brandon Giovanelli Studio & Gallery will be available as well, along with appetizers, craft brews and wine, and finally a concert from soulful music group One Voice at 5 p.m.
    “Covid-19 affected every part of our economy, and artists and art events were no exception,” Museum Director Erika Sauter said. “But we also know that arts and cultural events aid in economic recovery for communities following a disaster like a pandemic. Therefore, our goal with this event is to offer a cultural experience for our region, give a boost to local artists and raise money to improve the museum.”  
    In 2020, a museum patron donated about 24 plain, wooden canoe paddles with the intent they be used for a fundraiser. Nearly 20 artists from around the region were then solicited to paint or carve something original on the paddles, which will be sold in a silent auction during the event.
    Those who prefer to simply make a donation are welcome to do so, and people will be able to call in remotely to bid on paddles. Proceeds from the silent auction will be used to make improvements to the Bernhardt Cultural Center.
    “We hope that our community members will come and enjoy a cultural experience that will help us in the preservation of our local history and bolster local artists, too,” Sauter said.
    The event is free to attend, and tours of the galleries will be given by donation. Learn more at ironcountymuseum.org or call 265-2617.