Staff Report

The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature will host its 20^th Anniversary Virtual Fundraiser on Oct. 16, sponsored by Northern Trust. Due to restrictions on gatherings imposed by COVID-19, this virtual event will take the place of the Wildling’s annual Spring BBQ and fall Art of Brunch. Attendees are invited to raise a glass to virtually toast the Wildling and help celebrate 20 years of bringing quality art and nature exhibitions and programs to the community.

Photo contributed
A gallery view of the Wildling’s current exhibition, 20/20: A Retrospective, which honors the museum’s 20-year history.

Emcee and auctioneer Jim Farnum will guide guests through a lively event full of special tributes, beautiful art and fun bidding wars on great live auction items. Attendees will also enjoy a video tour of the museum’s 20^th anniversary exhibition, 20/20: A Retrospective, which celebrates 20 years of exhibitions highlighting stories of local natural areas, endangered species, and far-flung landscapes that inspire travel. Most importantly, given the museum’s six months of mandated closure, this virtual event will help raise funds that will be doubled by Wildling Museum board member Kate Godfrey, up to $15,000.

The Wildling’s Silent Auction will feature one-of-a-kind art, jewelry, local wines, dining and lodging packages, and more. Silent auction bidding will be open online from Oct. 9-16, closing at 5 p.m. on event day. The live auction will feature a four-night stay at a private guesthouse in the Santa Ynez Valley; a three-night stay at a vacation home in the beautiful Mission Creek area of Santa Barbara with a private tour and outdoor breakfast at Creekspirit, the garden full of the amazing mosaics of Wildling founder Patti Jacquemain; a hand-made fox-themed quilt; and a Cambria overnight getaway.

There is no cost to attend, however online registration in advance is required. Once registered, guests will receive an email with the link to join the event. Learn more about the event and register in advance at: www.wildlingmuseum.org/news/virtual-anniversary

The Wilding Museum is seeking additional sponsors and auction donations. Contact Stacey Otte-Demangate at stacey@wildlingmuseum.org or call 805-686-8216 to discuss available sponsorship opportunities. To donate to the Wildling’s silent and live auctions, contact Lauren Sharp at lauren@wildlingmuseum.org or call (805) 686-8315.

Special thanks to lead sponsors Kate and Dick Godfrey, Northern Trust, and Judy and Jack Stapelmann.