If you go
› What: smART, curated art auction and benefit for Southern Lit Alliance› When: 6:30 p.m. Thursday› Where: The Venue Chattanooga, 4119 Cummings Highway› Admission: $50 general admission, $75 VIP (includes early entry and bidding, access to exclusive liquor bar and music)› Phone: 267-1218› Website: southerlitalliance.org/smart
Extras
› Live music this year at smART will be provided on the main stage by local R&B vocalist Courtney Reid.› Sculptor Maria Willison and propane torch artist Hollie Berry will conduct live demonstrations.› After the auction concludes, a new VIP lounge will open, featuring entertainment by pianist Walter Bitner and his son, Holden Bitner, on bass.
Given their traditional characterization as “starving,” it might seem odd for artists to willingly part with half the proceeds from selling their work.
Every year, however, dozens of local artists agree to go halfsies with the Southern Lit Alliance during smART, the organization’s annual silent auction fundraiser.
This year’s auction, set for Thursday at The Venue Chattanooga, will feature a biddable collection including a single piece each from 59 local artists, a nearly 20 percent increase in participation over last year.