The Drawing Center, a premier institution in New York, brings its annual Benefit Auction online with Bidsquare Cloud. The organization is known for its dedication to the exhibition of drawings, ranging from historical works to cutting-edge contemporary art. Since its founding in 1977, the Drawing Center has played a vital role in promoting drawing as a significant and versatile medium in the art world. 

From September 16 to 30, The Drawing Center presents the 2024 Benefit Auction titled “A Selection of Great Art by People Who Know What They Like,” which brings together 33 prominent artists, curators, and art lovers to examine why we are drawn to some artworks over others. This year, these guest curators, such as KAWS and Jack Shear, were chosen to present a selection of five or more works on paper by artists they admire, with art lovers having the chance to engage in a bidding war for original, high-caliber pieces. As in past years, the benefit auction is expected to draw attention from seasoned collectors and new buyers alike, eager to acquire one-of-a-kind artworks while supporting The Drawing Center’s dynamic programming.

Key Details for the Auction

Bidding Opens: Monday, September 16, 2024, at 12pm EST 

Bidding Closes: Monday, September 30, 2024, at 8:30pm EST

The Benefit Auction Goes Online with Bidsquare Cloud

The Drawing Center has partnered with Bidsquare Cloud, an industry-leading auction software solution, to power the online auction and expand its reach far beyond New York. Bidsquare Cloud provides a state-of-the-art, secure digital infrastructure and bidding experience, allowing participants to seamlessly browse, bid, and buy artworks in person through their mobile phones as well as allow bidders from across the globe to participate without the need to attend in person.

By utilizing Bidsquare Cloud’s user-friendly interface, bidders can explore the auction catalog, access high-resolution images of each work, and make informed bidding decisions. This online platform also guarantees real-time bidding updates and ensures that each transaction is conducted with transparency and security, offering peace of mind to both buyers and The Drawing Center itself.

“Having the ability to host the auction ourselves versus outside marketplaces is a game changer. Bidsquare Cloud provides all the tools and resources we need to have a successful online auction and physical event accessible to bidders both in the room and around the world” says Rebecca Brickman of The Drawing Center. And the organization has seen positive results with the software. For the past three years, online bidding and artworks sold online have increased steadily each year by nearly +20% since partnering with Bidsquare Cloud in 2021.

Supporting the Future of Drawing

With the help of Bidsquare Cloud, The Drawing Center’s 2024 Benefit Auction aims to exceed previous fundraising efforts, directly supporting the Center’s robust programming. The funds raised will bolster exhibitions, publications, education initiatives, and public programs, ensuring that The Drawing Center can continue to be a leading voice in the contemporary art world.

For collectors, this auction presents an unparalleled opportunity to acquire great art while actively supporting the growth of an institution that champions the medium of drawing. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or a first-time bidder, The Drawing Center’s 2024 Benefit Auction, powered by Bidsquare Cloud, promises an engaging and impactful experience.

Browse the collection and bid now at drawingcenter.org (https://auction.drawingcenter.org/) to help shape the future of contemporary art at the Drawing Center. TIckets to attend the sale in person can be purchased here: https://drawingcenter.org/programs/2024-benefit-auction.