Clockwise from upper left: “A Heart Divided” by Jim Cullen, “How Fragile Yet How Strong” by Cathy Brettman and Joe Cooper, “Copper & Silver Heart” by Monica Jones, “Rescued ’16” by Lee Holroyd, “The Key” by Michael Seagle, and “Yours Forever” by Carol Beth Icard.

The opening reception for the fifth annual Have a HeArt for Big Brothers Big Sisters is rescheduled for Saturday, Jan. 30 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Upstairs Artspace. This popular charitable event features the work of regional artists who donated heart-themed items for a silent auction to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters.

More than 60 regional artists have contributed pieces to the HeArts project, including painters Bonnie Bardos, Paticia Cole-Ferullo, Lee Holroyd, Linda Hudgins, Carol Beth Icard, Christine Mariotti, and Estell Osten, metal workers Bill Crowell, Barney Eiserloh and Alex Trumble, jewelers Monica Jones and Janet Hickey, ceramic artists Jim Cornell, Jim Cullen, Doug Dacey and Toby Wolter, woodwork by BJ Precourt, Harris Fortier, and Andy and Lynn Costine, mixed media artists Kim Attwooll, Cathy Brettman and Joe Cooper, Douglas Chamberlain, Diana Gurri, Dulcinea Juenger, Bob Neely, Jane Powell, Christy Souther, and many many more.

The public is encouraged to visit the gallery during the opening reception or regular gallery hours Tuesday – Saturday from 11 a.m. -5 p.m. Silent auction bidding continues through Feb. 13. Obviously there will be a wide range of artwork to appeal to visitors to the gallery!

Gallery guests are encouraged to select favorites and place bids. If you have ever contemplated donating to Big Brothers Big Sisters, now is the chance to collect a wonderful premium in exchange for your contribution!

Special thanks to event sponsors Song Hill Reserve, Dave and Sue Anderson, Walker Wallace & Emerson Realty, Phoenix Futures Inc., David and Patty Slater, Tryon Estates, The Book Shelf and Vines & Stuff.  The Polk County Community Foundation is also recognized for their ongoing support for Big Brothers Big Sisters.
The HeArts closing event on Saturday, Feb. 13 will be from 4-7 p.m., with bids ending at 6 p.m. sharp. Hopefully the closing will be a celebration worthy of honoring all of these generous artists and will generate wide support for Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs for area children.

– Submitted by Karen Dacey