Mapleton art auction exceeds expectations and raises funds for public art

The first-ever Mapleton Art Auction has been hailed a major success, with 38 of 92 lots sold and funds raised to support the ‘Art in Public Places’ initiative.

Organised by Mapleton Art and supported by the Mapleton Library Community Centre, the auction offered a service to community members looking to downsize and rehome investment art collected over past decades.

A 20% commission on sales was retained to fund community art projects designed to create colour and enjoyment in public spaces and boost the local economy. The auction featured a wide range of artworks, including Australian Indigenous, English, New Zealand and Australian pieces.

Recognised artists included Minnie Pwerle, Rex Backhaus-Smith and Tom McAulay, with artwork sizes ranging from miniatures to over a metre in size.

The event attracted strong online and in-person interest, with bidders participating locally and from overseas. Telephone bids were common throughout the afternoon.

The Mapleton Library Community Centre was transformed into an exhibition space for the event, with extra display panels kindly provided by Mapleton State School.

Volunteers played a central role in preparing and running the event. The online viewing of remaining artwork continues until 23 April, with expressions of interest invited via email.

More details: www.mapletonlibrary.au/mapleton-art-auctions

Mapleton residents and visitors are encouraged to explore new public artworks on display throughout 2025.

A happy buyer at the Mapleton Art Auction.