Robert Morris Gallery plays host to charitable auction
The event at RMC Springfield’s Art Gallery raised money for public schools through auctioning photographic works.
On Friday, July 20, the Robert Morris Gallery in Springfield featured the works of 15 past and present State Journal-Register photographers. After the event, rather than clean up, the gallery just sold everything. “We couldn’t decide what to do with all of this framed photography,” said Shelley Lamantia, RMC art instructor. “So we decided to turn what would have simply been an art exhibit into a silent auction for charity.”
The auction, which was attended by more than 100 guests, raised over $2,000. The money was donated to Springfield public schools for art supplies. “This was a great opportunity to showcase the work of local talent while also giving back to the community,” said Lamantia.
The lineup of photography included the work of Michael Brown, former intern with the State Journal-Register, who now works as a photographer with National Geographic magazine.
Currently, the Robert Morris Gallery is displaying the artwork of several RMC Springfield faculty members including business instructor Bob Allen, computer studies instructor Dave Ross and science instructor Tricia Hardway. Later this summer, the gallery will host the Illinois Artisans Show in conjunction with the Illinois State Museum.
“The Illinois Artisans Show is the type of exhibit that you would expect to find in a bigger city like St. Louis or Chicago,” said Lamantia, “I am just thrilled that the Illinois State Museum has been so eager and willing to get involved.”