Enjoy 'An Evening of Fine Art & Wine'

Enjoy "An Evening of Fine Art & Wine" at the West Valley Art Museum on July 12. As its name suggests, the event will feature an art auction and wine tasting to benefit the museum.

"Museums survive on events like this," said curator George Palovich. "We're hoping to raise $10,000-$20,000, but really we'll be happy with anything we can get."

Participants can bid on more than 50 works of museum-quality art from more than two dozen artists, with all the proceeds going to the museum. In addition, eleven local and regional artists are scheduled to attend and talk about their works, including local favorites Michael Cunningham and Red Rohall. Also, Jim Covarrubius will create a painting live during the event, to be auctioned off at the end.

"I've even donated one of my own sculptures," Palovich said.

Devine Wines will be on hand hosting the wine tasting, and the museum bistro also will provide hors d'oeuvres.

"Because who can turn down free food," Palovich said.

The event has been planned as primarily a silent auction. However, it features six live auctions as well. All of the works are currently on display at the museum for potential bidders to get a sneak preview. For Palovich, however, the biggest offerings are two bronze relief sculptures by John Waddell, which were donated to the auction by Gary and Jean Herberger.

"They are about 40 inches wide and designed to hang on the wall. We've set a buy out price of $20,000 each for them. For that price you can walk in and take one home today," Palovich said. "I'll even come to your house and hang it myself."