Wolfgang Ritschel loved the vibrant red color of Red Rock National Park Canyon in the Mojave Desert. Its Aztec Sandstone amidst the other rugged orange and brown-colored rock formations dating back 180 to 190 million years present a striking palette to talented artists.
The late Cincinnati physician, educator, and artist never missed a chance to revel in this natural geological treasure and its wildlife through his paintings. “Red Rock,” reflecting his delight about the natural beauty of the park, will be a highlight of the Behringer-Crawford Museum’s 23rd annual freshART gala dinner and auction on Saturday, Sept. 12.
Before his passing in 2010, Ritschel, who created paintings and sculptures that have been featured in more than 300 showings world-wide, bequeathed a collection of 100 of his works titled “Art from the Heart” to BCM. Each year at freshART, one of those works is auctioned to raise funds for the museum’s educational programs.
“Red Rock” will join several dozen other original works which will be created and auctioned that same day in Devou Park by talented area artists. The live art auction will follow a champagne reception, a silent auction of previously completed artwork and art-inspired gift baskets, and an elegant catered dinner on the Behringer-Crawford’s terrace beginning at 6 p.m.
Michael Monks, editor and publisher of The River City News, will be the event’s master of ceremonies. The live auction will be conducted by Maggie Beckmeyer of Auctions by Maggie, and gala-goers will be entertained by guitarist Pete Papania and his quartet.
Advance tickets to freshART 2015 are $100 through September 4 and $125 thereafter, available online at www.bcmuseum.org or by calling (859) 491-4003. The public is invited to see the artists at work in Devou Park from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., and to visit the museum, which will have free admission that day.
Proceeds from freshART fund the museum’s youth programming. Since the inception of the event, more than a half-million dollars has been raised, bringing educational and cultural activities to a quarter-million area children.
From the BCM