ART AUCTION

EVENT OVERVIEW
The annual Art Auction is the Southern Alberta Art Gallery Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin's signature fundraising gala where artists, art lovers, collectors, and community champions come together in celebration of creativity. As the key fundraiser that drives our mission forward, every dollar raised directly supports the artists, dynamic programming, engaging exhibitions, and daily operations that make the Gallery a vital hub. For 50 years, the Gallery has been a place of artistic expression, education, and connection. By attending and extending your generous support, you are directly championing the arts and ensuring this ongoing work can continue to inspire our community for the next 50 years.

Purchase your tickets today to join us at this special gala event hosted by our friends at Excite Lethbridge, featuring an incredible collection of 65 artworks donated by past exhibiting artists and southern Alberta’s visual arts community. Tickets include a three-course gourmet meal by Sky & Table, beverages, and exclusive access to our live auction.

PREVIEW WEEK
The Gallery will be open to the public regular hours from Wednesday, April 15 to Thursday, April 29 for anyone to preview the art and online auction items. Bidding opens April 15th!

THE MAIN EVENT
The party gets underway at 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 2. Arrive in style in your most fun and fashionable attire to our cocktail hour presented by Subaru of Lethbridge from 5-6 p.m. Enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne, sponsored by Westco Construction. Mix, mingle, and bid on our online auction items, featuring more than 20 packages by wonderful local businesses. Capture the moment with friends and fellow attendees in the photo booth.
The formal program starts at 6 p.m. that begins with our Sparkling Salute to the Artists presented by the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge followed by a delicious three-course meal prepared by the culinary team from Sky & Table. Complimentary wine will be provided for each table, sponsored by FWBA Architects.

THE LIVE AUCTION
The highlight of the evening, our Live Auction, will provide attendees exclusive access to bid on 25 artworks by local, regional, national, and international artists. This year’s selection includes sculpture, painting, photography, fibre and more, ranging in value from $150 to $4,000. We are thrilled to celebrate our 2026 Feature Artist Catherine Ross and thank our Feature Artist Donor Nimisha Manji.

We are grateful to have artists at the centre of our organization, and thank our Arts Advocate Sponsor, Fee Simple Law for their commitment to making space for artists at their business, and to our Media Sponsor, PATTISON Outdoor Advertising, who connect communities to our artistic programming year-round!

ART AUCTION 2026 | MAY 2

Cocktail Hour
5:00 PM

Formal Program & Dinner
6:00 PM

Live Auction
8:00 PM

Online Auction Bidding Closes
11:00 PM

Photobooth
5:00 - 10:00 PM

EXCITE LETHBRIDGE
Lakeview Salon (upper level)

Directions & Venue Map

A three-course meal prepared by the culinary team from Sky & Table.

COURSE ONE

• Roasted Beet Salad | Earthy roasted beets paired with bold flavors

• Assorted Artisan Rolls | Served with whipped butter

COURSE TWO

Choice of Entrée:

• Roast Striploin of Beef

  • Canadian AAA Beef with signature au jus

  • Mini Yorkshire Pudding

  • Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato

  • Chef’s Medley of Hot Vegetables

OR

• Wild Mushroom Polenta Cakes

  • Shimeji and cremini mushroom ragout

COURSE THREE

• Caramel Turtle Cheesecake

• Coffee & Tea Station | Freshly brewed coffee and assorted teas

Who can participate in the auctions?

We have two exciting ways to bid! Our Online Auction is completely open to the public, anyone, anywhere can browse and place bids on an incredible selection of artworks as well as exclusive packages from regional businesses from April 15 until May 2 at 11:00 PM. However, our Live Auction is an exclusive highlight reserved for attendees of the in-person gala on May 2.

How do I pay for and collect my items if I win?

• Online Auction: All winning bids for the online auction are processed securely and directly through our Givergy bidding platform. Winning items can be picked up at the Gallery the following week, up until May 9. Shipments of winning auction items can be organized by the Gallery at the buyer's request and expense.

• Live Auction: To ensure a smooth checkout process for our guests, the Live Auction is a completely cashless experience. We gladly accept payment via credit card, debit card, or cheque. Please note that all winning Live Auction items must be paid for and taken home the evening of the event.

Tickets are on sale and available for purchase here until April 27.

• Member: $150

• Non-Member: $175

• Table of Eight: $1,200

Joining us from out of town? We have special hotel rates available for Art Auction guests to stay with our friends and neighbours at Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge. Please reach out to development@saag.ca for the discount code.

How can I support the Gallery if I am unable to attend?

Even if you cannot join us in person on May 2, there are many meaningful ways to champion the Gallery and be part of our milestone year:

Bid Online: Participate in our online auction, bidding is open to everyone until May 2!

Make a Donation: Consider making a direct, tax-deductible contribution to support our exhibitions and programming.

Become a Member: Join our community for a year of creative benefits, including unlimited admission, exclusive event access, shop discounts, and special rates at over 25 local partner businesses.

Visit the Gallery: Stop by during regular hours to experience our current exhibitions in person with complimentary admission.

Spread the Word: Follow us on social media, share our posts, and invite your friends to discover what we do.

Stay Connected: Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to get the latest updates on upcoming gallery events, artist talks, and opportunities.