The South Side Community Art Center (SSCAC), along with the IIT Office of Community Affairs and Outreach Programs will host its 50th Annual Art Auction and Fundraiser on Saturday, August 1, 2015 from 5–9 p.m. in Hermann Hall. SSCAC’s very first art auction was also held at Hermann Hall. Tickets for the event are $50. To purchase tickets, click here. As in past years, the auction will feature art from established and emerging artists, including nationally recognized artists Elizabeth Catlett, Eldzier Cortor, Margaret Burroughs, Hebru Brantley, William Carter, Richard Hunt, Joyce Owens, Buchi Upjohn, Woodrow Nash, Martha Wade, David Geary, and Eugene “Edaw” Wade, among others. The annual art auction is SSCAC’s primary fundraiser.

Proceeds will support the SSCAC’s mission: to preserve, conserve, and promote the legacy and future of African American art and artists, while educating the community on the value of art and culture. The auction also gives emerging artists the opportunity to have their works viewed and purchased along side nationally- and internationally-established artists. 2015 also marks the 75th anniversary of the SSCAC. Honorary Chairs for the event are Michelle Boone, commissioner, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE); Naomi Beckwith, Marilyn and Larry Fields, curators, Museum of Contemporary Art; and Ra Joy, executive director, Arts Alliance Illinois. Art auctioneers include celebrated artist Candace Hunter, founder of Chlee Art, and guest auctioneer Jumaane N’Namdi, N’Namdi Contemporary Miami. NBC 5 Chicago’s LeeAnn Trotter will be the evening’s emcee. SSCAC Advisory Board Member and renowned artist Faheem Majeed will be honored for both his artistry and life of service, including his service as executive director of SSCAC from 2005 – 2011.

There will also be a musical tribute to legendary artist and civil rights Activist Oscar Brown, Jr. by his daughter Maggie. Brown was in attendance at SSCAC’s first auction in 1965. In commemoration of its 75th anniversary, SSCAC will introduce the NextGen 75 Associates Board at the auction. Since 1940, SSCAC has been a community force supporting the arts and providing art education and programming to Chicago’s metropolitan area youth, adults and seniors. Situated in the heart of Bronzeville, the South Side Community Art Center grew out of the Work Progress Administration (WPA) Federal Arts Project. Of the 110 Federal Art Project’s centers, the SSCAC is the oldest surviving African American Art Center in the country. Additional information about SSCAC can be found here.

This event reflects the values expressed in IIT’s Diversity Statement and is intended to promote diversity at IIT.