Great Southern art community rallies to host art sale fundraiser for fire-affected families

Great Southern artists have donated their work to raise funds for families who were affected by last month’s catastrophic bushfire in Denmark.

The blaze that started in thick bushland on February 4 scorched more than 2000 hectares and destroyed four homes over the following three days.

Denmark artists Sarah Bondini and Seirah Woodward have organised an exhibition art sale fundraiser at the Denmark Community Resource Centre’s gallery to raise funds for the Denmark Community Foundation’s bushfire appeal.

More than 50 pieces of art from both professional and hobby artists have been donated and will be exhibited for the art sale.

“We had horrific fires that came through in February and it affected four families here in Denmark, they lost their houses,” Ms Bondini said.

“I just wanted to give back to the community and try and raise money to help these families.

“100 per cent of the money we raise will go to the DCF and they will distribute the money amongst the families that need it.”

The organisers sent out expressions of interest to both Denmark and Albany artists and had an “overwhelming response” from the creative community.

“We sent emails out to about 30 or more artists in Denmark and we also approached the Albany Art Group,” Ms Bondini said.

“The response has been massive and nearly every person that has been touched by his had donated a painting— some have even donated two.

“Those who weren’t artists and wanted to donate contributed to the raffle prizes.”

Ms Bondini said people could expect a diverse range of art for sale.

“About 50 paintings and a mosaic bird bath have been donated,” she said.

“A couple of professional artists have donated and then you’ve got hobby artists as well.

“You’ve got a real mixture of art and all different mediums — some are framed and some are on canvases.”

The doors of the CRC gallery will open at 5.30pm on Friday, March 25.

“Even if they don’t want a piece of art, they could buy raffle tickets or they can put a donation in the tin,” she said.

“Just to support our community that we feel very passionate about.”

The art exhibition and sale will also run on Saturday, March 26 and Sunday, 27 from 10am-4pm.