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The public will be able to get a close look at the 6-inch-high 2001 cinnamon macchia on Friday at Childhood’s End Gallery in Olympia. The wine and cheese event will also feature other items to be sold at the auction.
The Chihuly piece is valued at $4,500, according to the artist’s studio. It features a yellow form dusted with red pigment and a clear body wrapped with blue spots. It comes with a clear plexiglass case.
Senior Services for South Sound provides services for the area’s low-income and at-risk elderly, providing transportation, adult day care, and health and wellness programs. It has 500 Meals on Wheels clients in Thurston and Mason counties.
The organization’s executive director, Eileen McKenzieSullivan, said Chihuly made the donation after an auction committee member attended a recent Tacoma lecture by Chihuly and asked the artist for help.
“He followed up. He had people call us. It was really exciting,” McKenzieSullivan said.
The Chihuly piece will be one of many items at the auction; other items include airline and cruise tickets, getaways to Mexico, Hawaii and Washington, and gift baskets. Last year’s auction netted $72,000.
“That really helps, especially in our economy. There’s a lot of need right now,” McKenzieSullivan said.
Chihuly fans who don’t wish to attend the Nov. 5 event can offer pre-auction bids.
Craig Sailor: 253-597-8541 craig.sailor@thenewstribune.com
