Kluge-Ruhe Collection to Hold FLASH Party and Art Auction on Nov. 14

The University of Virginia’s Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection will host “FLASH,” a party and art auction to fund the conservation of artworks in the museum’s permanent collection, on Nov. 14 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

The auction catalog features both affordable works, some with starting bids as low as $50, and collectable works by Australian Aboriginal artists such as Judy Watson and Shorty Jangala Robertson. Artworks in a variety of media are available, from canvas and paper to bark, glass, and even a didgeridoo. The auction also boasts three “mystery baskets,” as well as a number of local services centered on the theme of conservation.

The party will feature local cuisine, Australian wine and door prizes of original art. Explore the auction catalog, bid online and buy tickets, which are $35 per person, at kluge-ruhe.org/flash. Bidding will also take place at the event, which will be held at the museum, located at 400 Worrell Drive, Peter Jefferson Place, in Charlottesville.

The Kluge-Ruhe Collection, the only museum in the United States dedicated to the exhibition and study of Australian Aboriginal art, is charged with the stewardship of more than 1,700 objects. While the museum maintains the ongoing stability of the collection, conservation treatment on individual objects ranges from $1,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the severity of the need. The auction proceeds will fund the treatment of objects that cannot be exhibited because of their condition.

“Support at this event will ensure the collection’s continued use by future generations, and will enable us to provide access to the general public, the University community, Australian Aboriginal people and international artists and scholars,” director Margo Smith said. 

FLASH is sponsored by the AV Company, Birch Studio, C&O Restaurant, Tom Cogill, Wendy Cowan, C-Ville Weekly, the embassy of Australia, Feast!, Fine Art Conservation of Virginia, grahame galleries + editions, the Great Frame Up, L’Etoile, Maya, Petit Pois and Judy Watson.