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Fundraising auction provides opportunity to own a piece of local artist’s work

Quadra Island’s Richard Calver studied with renowned printmaker Sybil Andrews in 1976
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Richard Calver, 1946-2021, studied with renowned artist Sybil Andrews and went on to achieve a degree of commercial success of his own. He was known in particular for his self-portraits, a sample of which is pictured here. This piece is included in the online auction set to start May 15. Photo submitted

A collection of works by renowned Quadra Island Artist Richard Calver will be auctioned as a fundraiser put on by the Museum at Campbell River and the Campbell River Art Gallery.

The online auction, scheduled to go live on Wednesday, May 15 at 12 p.m., will run for 12 days, untill Sunday, May 26 at 8 p.m.

This unique fundraising event will showcase a diverse range of Calver’s creations – from his early sketches and studies, to watercolour paintings, oil paintings, and prints. Each original piece not only highlights Calver’s talent, but also pays homage to the rich artistic culture of Campbell River.

Calver’s journey took off when he began studying with renowned printmaker Sybil Andrews in 1976. Andrews, a prodigy of the Grosvenor School of Art in London, influenced Calver to explore the inner meanings of his work and to capture the essence of nature in his art.

Calver’s work reflects a deep respect for the natural world, with organic shapes and dynamic compositions that transport viewers to the landscapes of his surroundings. His work, rich in detail and color, encompass botanical forms, figures, nudes, and musical subjects, all infused with a sense of movement and vibrancy.

Bidding in the auction will take place entirely online with the easy to navigate auction website, and interested participants will have the opportunity to view the artworks in person at the museum from May 15 to 26. A special presentation about Calver’s work will also be offered by Jenelle Pasiechnik, Curator with the Campbell River Art Gallery as part of International Museum Day activities on May 18 at 2 p.m. at the Museum at Campbell River.

The duo of Campbell River Art Gallery and the Museum at Campbell River invites the public to the opening reception of the auction on May 15 at 4 p.m. at the Museum. Light refreshments will be served, and this will be the first opportunity for the public to see the beautiful artworks in person.

Interested bidders can find more information and register to participate in the auction at the Museum at Campbell River website or register at http://fundraiser.support/LegacyofRichardCalver.