The Jasper Anglican Church will transform into an art gallery Aug. 1, in time for its bi-annual art auction.
As well as being a major fundraiser for the church, the event is an opportunity for local art lovers to snag some high-quality works at below-retail prices.
Retired rector David Prowse explained that much of the artwork is donated by Wendy Wacko, who owns Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.
Wacko formed a bond with the parish 20 years ago. At the time, her ailing mother was living with her and required 24-hour care. But, in those days, there weren鈥檛 as many supports for palliative care. So the responsibility fell to Wacko, who couldn鈥檛 care for her mother all by herself.
Then, without her even asking, David Griffin, the Anglican minister at the time, reached out and provided Wacko with assistance during her mother鈥檚 last days.
After her mother passed away, Wacko created the art auction as a way of thanking the church.
鈥淪he鈥檚 done it as a gift to the parish,鈥� said Prowse, adding that it鈥檚 a much needed and appreciated gift. 鈥淚t has been something that has helped us keep the parish afloat.鈥�
In 2012, through the auctioning off of sculptures, watercolours, oil paintings and even needlework, the event brought in about $20,000. Those funds are used to support the operation and maintenance of the historic church.
The event will run from Aug. 1 to Aug. 10, with the doors of the church opening for bidders at 11 a.m. each day.
On the last day, Prowse said many people will swing by the church, located at the corner of Miette Avenue and Geikie Street, to make their last minute bids.
鈥淭he church is a neat place to do it,鈥� said Prowse. 鈥淚t has traditionally been a centre for the arts.鈥�
聽Nicole Veerman
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