About

Over the past few months, masks have have become commonplace in our communities. On the bus, in the grocery store, at the doctor’s office – even in parks and playgrounds – people are donning masks to protect themselves and those around them. The mask, so closely tied to ideas of caution and care, has become emblematic of these strange and difficult pandemic times we’re living in. As such, the mask is fertile ground for the artistic imagination. Artists all over the world have been playing with the form and concept of the mask, using it as a way to express personal and cultural identity, make a political statement, reflect on this pandemic time, or just have fun.



Locally, Manitoba Craft Council members and friends have been creating masks, both functional and beyond, as well as mask-inspired artwork that reflect our current moment. We now invite YOU to support craft and craftspeople in your community by bidding at our online Masks and Makers fundraising auction. For many of us, craft has played an important role in our lives: it’s a profession, a passion, an income generator, a mental health outlet, a source of pride, community, and cultural connection. Craft has helped to keep us healthy, so let’s return the favour: bid on your favourite masks or mask-themed artwork and help keep craft alive and vital.



Lot #1

opens July 27, 2020

closes August 7, 9 pm



Lot #2

opens August 8, 2020

closes August 21, 9 pm



Lot #3

opens August 22, 2020

closes September 4, 9 pm



FAQs



What kind of masks will be in the auction?

-Functional masks that you can wear to protect yourself and your community, sewn with love and skill…

-Artistic masks that push the boundaries…. Fun, creative, eclectic… some functional, some intended for display!

-Works of art in a variety of media that are inspired by masks and the pandemic experience.



Can anyone bid?

Yes! Just sign up at 32auctions.com



I hate computers. Can I see the work and bid in person?

You betcha! Come on down to the C2 Centre for Craft, 1-329 Cumberland Ave where the masks will be on display while the auction lot is live. Staff will help you place a bid. No computer experience necessary.



How will the auction work?

The auction is divided into three lots. Each lot will be available online for public viewing and bidding, in person and online, for approximately two weeks. At the auction lot’s close, the highest bidder for each item will be the winner.



Will any of the proceeds go directly to the craftspeople and artists who made the work?

Anyone submitting work to this auction will be asked to indicate what percentage of the sale of their artwork they wish to donate to the MCC, from 50% to 100%.



I would like to donate a mask I’ve made. How can I do that?
For all the details on how to donate a mask to the auction visit the link below:
https://c2centreforcraft.ca/2020/06/15/call-for-submissions-masks-makers-online-fundraising-auction/

July 20th is the deadline to register and all submissions must be received by July 25, 2020.



Who do I contact with questions?

tsutherland@c2centreforcraft.ca or call 204.615.3951





NOTE ABOUT THE MCC

The Manitoba Craft Council is for people who love contemporary craft: professional artists and artisans, collectors and connoisseurs, DIYers and armchair enthusiasts. It’s for people who value the originality and quality of the handmade, who find meaning in making. It’s for the dreamers and schemers who seek to reinterpret the material and cultural traditions of the past through a contemporary lens. It’s for people who have to forge, carve, weave, fold, sculpt, knit. And for their friends and supporters. It’s for you. See, smell, touch, explore the myriad expressions of contemporary craft in Manitoba and be part of a community that is shaped, motivated, and defined by its love of craft.



The Manitoba Craft Council (MCC) was founded in 1978 as Manitoba’s only not-for-profit arts organization dedicated exclusively to contemporary craft. Our purpose is to promote, develop and advocate for contemporary craft and its makers in Manitoba.



Contact info:

Tammy Sutherland

Director, Manitoba Craft Council

tsutherland@c2centreforcraft.ca

204.615.3951



Chelsey Thiessen

Admin and Communications Coordinator

mccadmin@c2centreforcraft.ca

204.615.3951

Craft Types

• Fibre
• Leather
• Mixed Media

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