The Upstairs Artspace is now accepting donations of fine art and craft for the 5th Silent Art Auction to be held April 1 – April 9. The popular event is one of the nonprofit organization’s most successful fund-raisers.

Everyone has art they are willing to part with, but instead of storing it in a closet, they can donate it to a worthwhile cause. The auction is also a boon for people looking for big bargains in art. The art can be from any time period or country; be made by recognized or unknown artists; be two or three-dimensional or be framed or unframed. Original art is preferred.

Art donations should be brought to the Upstairs during regular business hours, Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Or call 828-859-2828 to make other arrangements, including pick-ups for large or cumbersome art. Deadline for deliveries is Sunday, March 27.

The art will be on exhibit for a week. During this time people can view the art and place their bids. On Saturday, April 9, the bidding in the silent auction will close at 4 p.m. At 5 p.m. auctioneer Bill Jones will conduct a live auction of selected art, much of it donated by regional artists. A wine and cheese party will add to the excitement.

Gail Muir and Harry Sparshott are co-chairs of the event. For further information call 828-859-2828.