Art aficionados alert: Next weekend, the works of 12 local artists are about to hit the auction block. Now in its third year, the 27th Annual David Dike Fine Art Texas Art Auction gets underway, benefitting Dallas 24 Hour Club.
One hundred percent of proceeds from these pieces will help provide transitional living, support services, and essential life skills to homeless alcoholics and addicts. The A-list of contributors includes Joel Bermano, Brenda Bogart, Cindy Brewer, Leticia Herrera, Odilia Iaccarino, Tiara Jenkins, Kristi Kennimer, Nancy Lamb, Carly Allen Martin, Brie Milam, Margaret Rehwinkel and Kim Wyly.
“We are grateful to David, his wife Beth, the art community, and the artists and galleries who have contributed their beautiful art to support The 24 in so many ways,” said Marsha Williamson, CEO Emeritus.
“Every year, The 24 helps over 600 individuals get off the streets, find employment, reconnect with family members and recover from drug and alcohol addiction,” added Adrienne Santaularia, development director.
Beneficiaries of the program live in the three-year-old Tillman House – a 10-minute walk from The 24’s Ross Avenue headquarters.
Named after founder Lee Tillman, the 18-unit complex can serve up to 41 low-income residents in seven one-bedroom apartments and 11 two-bedrooms. Previously owned by Reconciliation Outreach Ministry, the property was sold to The 24 at a discount because the owners wanted to ensure it would continue to benefit low-income people.
Residents are encouraged to work on their savings, repay debts, reconnect with family members, mentor new participants, maintain full-time employment, and continue their long-term sobriety. Higher education is available through Dallas College and Texas Tech University.
Thanks to Gavin Delahunty, world-renowned art curator and Dallas 24 Hour Club Board Member, Tillman House is bedecked with world-class artworks.
“His research proves that first-hand encounters with art can support recovery from addiction by transforming functional environments into compassionate care spaces that encourage, enrich, and empower. For example, art eases anxiety, stress, and depression. It increases confidence and self-esteem,” said Santaularia.
“Art strengthens communication and interpersonal skills, stimulates imagination, and improves empathy and understanding.”
Donors include Dallas art enthusiasts Michael Corman and Kevin Fink, Anna and Gavin Delahunty, Jennifer and John Eagle, Timothy C. Headington, Marguerite Steed Hoffman, Cindy and Howard Rachofsky, Deedie Rose, Lisa and John Runyon, and Sharon and Michael Young.
“The art has been so very meaningful in supporting their recovery and healing of trauma, and we feel so fortunate to be able to feature local artists and their pieces with our residents and community,” Williamson said.
More than 400 lots of Texas art, ranging from early and traditional to contemporary, are available for preview at David Dike Fine Art, 4887 Alpha Rd., Suite 210, Farmers Branch. Bidding begins Saturday, Oct. 21, at 10:30 a.m.
