MADISON — The second annual ‘An Evening of Art’ auction benefitting the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation raised nearly $15,000 to support Wisconsin 4-H arts and communications programs. The event was hosted by Dr. and Mrs. Ray Cross at the beautiful and historic Brittingham House in Madison.

Artwork created by 4-H youth from around the state, along with selected pieces from professional Wisconsin artists, were auctioned. The youth art was selected through a statewide contest held in June that attracted more than 100 entries. Drawing, painting, mixed-media, pottery and photography projects were highlighted. 

The ultimate purpose of the 4-H arts and communications programs is to provide opportunities for young people to develop the character and life skills they will need to become successful and contributing members of society.

The ‘An Evening of Art’ auction is one way the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation is working to enhance support of the arts and communications programming, including an endowment which permanently provides resources for arts-related programming. Funds generated from the auction will provide resources for 4-H arts and communications programs including visual and performing arts, communications, photography, speech and drama.

The Wisconsin 4-H arts and communications programs have a rich history and an exciting future. 

4-H youth are encouraged to develop their creative, problem-solving and technical skills through their 4-H experience. Arts and communications programming is one of the largest project areas in Wisconsin 4-H. It provides unprecedented opportunities to explore and develop artistic awareness, creative potential and appreciation of art and the artistic process.

This year’s prize-winning youth artists included: 

Best of Show: Thea Collins, Columbia County

“I’m a Little TeapOt,” winning bid $150 

First Prize, Painting:

Rochelle Heller, Jackson County

“Coneflower,” winning bid $250

 Second Prize, Painting:

Grace Kling, Jackson County

“Some Pig,” winning bid $550 

First Prize, Drawing:

Grace Schappe, Adams County

“Patriot’s Pledge,” winning bid $150 

Second Prize, Drawing:

Hallie Stalvig, Douglas County

“Sunset,” winning bid $150

 First Prize, Photography:

Annika Esselstrom, Green County

“Lake Sunset,” winning bid $125 

Second Prize, Photography:

Cristina Gray, La Crosse County

“Violin,” winning bid $125

 First Prize, Other Media:

Rafferty Dresen, Adams County

“Beaded Horse” winning bid $500 

Second Prize, Other Media:

Christian Julius, Outagamie County 

“Amazing Grace” winning bid $300 

In addition, professional artists donating their work included: Frank Breneisen of Fontana, who contributed two glazed pots; Mary Lindemann of Newton, who contributed several handmade necklaces; Eric Treece, Great Lakes Ship Master, who contributed aboard his ship, and Connie Glowacki of Rock and Door counties, who contributed a collage of her paintings of Door County sunsets. 

The Wisconsin 4-H Foundation, based in Madison, provides essential funding for 4-H programs throughout Wisconsin. 

By partnering with individuals, corporations and foundations, the Foundation supports various 4-H leadership, development, and community-building activities throughout the state. 

Learn more by visiting Wis4HFoundation.org.