Trust auctions donated art

THE National Trust’s Mornington Peninsula branch is holding an auction on Sunday 3 December of paintings, drawings and prints donated by branch members and friends.

Branch president Victor Sullivan said a chance remark during a gathering of members inspired the “unique fundraising idea”.

“Conversation between colleagues drifted to the topic of what happens after downsizing when people retain some or even all of their much-loved art collections, but do not have wall space to hang items,” he said.

“An appeal to members and friends has been hugely successful and we have gathered excellent examples of art for the auction.”

He said the branch, formed in 1985, “works tirelessly to raise funds to support the ongoing restoration and conservation of its heritage properties and collections”.

The National Trust has four properties in the region – McCrae Homestead (1843), The Briars Homestead at Mount Martha (1854), Mulberry Hill at Langwarrin South (1880 and Desbrowe Annear’s 1926 extension) and Endeavour Fern Gully at Red Hill (a remnant of indigenous bush that reopened to the public in 2011).

Artwork to be auctioned will include pastoral scenery, environmental influences, and contemporary and old master interpretations in oils, acrylics and pencil.

“Something for everyone’s taste,” Sullivan said.

“There will also be a small range of art books and historical journals on sale (not auctioned) and a door prize of a pure silk Moet & Chandon women’s shoulder scarf in its original box.”

The National Trust Mornington Peninsula branch Pre-loved Art Auction, Sunday 3 December, Peninsula Community Theatre, 91 Wilsons Road, Mornington. Works will be on display from 11am for the auction at 2.30pm.

Details from secretary Judy Walsh on 0407 099 855 or email jwa45664@gmail.com

Picture: Yanni