COLORADO SPRINGS — The month of October is dedicated to celebrating creativity in our community. Colorado Springs and the Pike's Peak region is kicking off the seventh annual arts month, with plenty of fun events happening all month long.
One of them includes the Big Loud Silent Auction at the Manitou Art Center to support local artists trying to rebound from the impacts of the pandemic.
The center is showcasing nearly 50 pieces of artwork for the auction which begins Friday, Oct. 2. Madalyn Kae, a local artist who specializes in sculptures and pottery says "times have been challenging for all artists... but this gets your work out there and gets it seen to start a conversation."
For Kae and other artists like Sallie Knox Hall, it hasn't been easy to show their artwork in a gallery during the pandemic.
"I know for all the artists out there, it's a challenge to try and get your work out when people can't come see it in person," said Hall.
Although Arts Month looks a little different this year because of COVID restrictions, it still values showcasing local talent. Typically there are about 300 events taking place throuhout the month, while this year this is about 100.
This is the 5th year of the auction, which is usually in-person, but this year, it's being held virtually. People interested in placing a bid on artwork can go online to learn more about the art and artist.
Hall thinks the virtual auction may even help artists like herself expand their audience and get more eyes on their pieces.
"People are kind of nesting and they want to be surrounded by art and color and beautiful things."
50% of the proceeds from each piece of art goes back into the artists' pockets, while the other half goes to the Manitou Art Center.
For more information on the Big Loud Silent Auction, click here.
