HOUSTON – Several artists from all over the city and as far as Oklahoma have donated their work for an upcoming art auction to raise funds for sick children.

Southern Country Houston

This is just one of the pieces donated to the silent auction.

“Our goal is to raise money for the kids at Camp Hope. The kids don’t have a choice of what happens to them, so we chose to help the kids,” said Blair Fullerton, Fundraising Chairman from Southern Country Houston.

Southern Country Houston is a non-profit organization that works with other charities in the community. While this the first time they have organized an art auction to support Camp Hope, the camp actually began in July of 1996.  It was launched by Aids Foundation Houston (AFH) , and was the first summer camp designed specifically for children between the ages of 7-15 with HIV/AIDS in Texas.

Participants now include youth from San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, Galveston, Austin, and other Texas cities as well as from other states. In the last 10 years, the camp has provided hope for over 1,000 kids.

Fullerton said he’s thrilled at the response he’s been receiving from artists, sculptures and crafters across the city.  Even with the economy being so tough, Houston’s generosity is shining through.

“People have really stepped up when they heard about what we were doing.  We’ve received pieces from Larry K. Hill, Salvante and a number of other artists,” said Fullerton. “We are also waiting on pieces from David Wells who works at the Museum of Fine Arts and a few others.”

The art ranges from watercolor paintings, to photographs, to innovative bowling ball lawn ornaments, but one of the more unique pieces is the wax relief donated by Ann Johnson called Burned and Tagged.

“It’s special because it’s not only striking, but it was the first piece that I had received for the auction,” said Fullerton.  “It's a really powerful piece, and those who have seen it in real life are taken back by how incredible it is.”

What also is incredible is that the art auction is actually happening. 

Originally it was planned for October, but was postponed because of Hurricane Ike.  Now Fullerton is back at square one and spreading the word that the event is back on.  He said he’s been trying building the momentum any way that he can.

“The amount of money we raise will depend on how many pieces of art we have in the auction, so we are looking for more artists who are willing to donate their work to help the kids,” said Fullerton.

Fullerton said they are looking for pieces not just from established artists, but from budding creators who want the chance to showcase their work to the public for a good cause. The auction will be on January 23 and deadline for submissions is January 12.

In addition to the artists who have donated their work, other people have stepped up to help out with the auction.

“Monica Pope is providing some of the food, and are working with a local winery to get beverages for the event.  Even the location was donated.  The auction is going to be held at this great house that is owned by John Danielson III in the Montrose area, “ said Fullerton.

Built in 1898, the historic home lends itself to being the perfect venue to showcase the art for the auction. 

“We are hoping to raise enough money in order to give the charity a substantial check,” said Fullerton.  “We are also hoping that if we are successful, that the art auction could become an annual event for artists and art-lovers to look forward to.”

The event is free to public.

Event Information:
Date: January 23
Location: 3618 Burlington in Houston
Doors open at 7:30 p.m.