The artistic creations of more than 60 area artists, the “heARTs” await new owners through the second annual Have a HeART for Big Brothers Big Sisters silent auction. The brainchild of area potter Jim Cornell, this fundraiser has created quite a stir with local artists enthusiastically and generously sharing their talents.

The HeARTs project accompanies the Upstairs Artspace opening exhibit of 2013, “Upload: Art of the Digital Camera Phone.” This show, organized by Chris Tinkler, demonstrates the creativity of digital imaging and manipulation, elevating digital photography to a highly accessible and immediate form of art. The photographs are arranged simplistically, giving viewers the opportunity to thoughtfully consider each one. The images presented in the exhibit are works by photographers, artists, and non-artists from across the region, the states and the world. The Upload exhibit continues through March 2. The show may be viewed during gallery hours Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters benefit reflects the unique talents of the many artists represented. Most of the works are presented on porcelain bisque hearts enhanced through various media, including oil, watercolor or acrylic paint, and ink, collage, glaze and mixed media. Some artists explored in other directions to create heARTs of wood, metal, carved marble or fiber.

These are the final few days to enter bids on hearts. Silent auction bids are encouraged through Feb. 9, with proceeds going to support the local Big Brothers Big Sisters programs.

The Have a HeART benefit will culminate with an open house for closing bids from 4 – 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 9. Refreshments will be served. Highest bidders will be announced beginning at 5:30 p.m., with payment by cash or check only to Big Brothers Big Sisters.

For more information on the HeARTs auction, contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at 828-859-9230 or polk@bbbswnc.org. The Upstairs Artspace may be reached at 828-859-2828 or visit www.upstairsartspace.org.

– article submitted by Karen Dacey