SAN DIEGO, CA.- The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego will host the 12th biennial Art Auction at the Jacobs Building at MCASD Downtown at 6:00 PM on Saturday, May 2. The highly anticipated event will feature live and silent auctions of approximately 100 works by early career and internationally recognized artists, including Leonardo Drew, June Edmonds, Luchita Hurtado, Jean Lowe, Kim MacConnel, Rubén Ortiz Torres, Trevor Paglen, Helen Pashgian, Ed Ruscha, Marnie Weber, and James Welling.

The event is the Museum’s largest fundraiser, providing vital support for educational programs, exhibitions, and art acquisitions. All works are carefully considered by MCASD’s Director and Curators.

“MCASD’s Art Auction allows visitors to switch from being observers of art to being active collectors of it,” says Kathryn Kanjo, MCASD’s David C. Copley Director and CEO. “This is a highly anticipated event in the community, but also a distinct opportunity for the art-curious and first time buyers.” said Kanjo. “Artworks are available at a range of price points, with pieces by emerging local artists to works by internationally recognized figures. Whether you’re a long-time attendee, aspiring collector, or just ready to enjoy a dynamic fundraiser, Art Auction 2020 is for you.”

This year’s auction will offer a range of works, from painting and sculpture to photography and works on paper, all donated from artists and galleries both locally and internationally. Artworks will be exhibited in the galleries at MCASD Downtown from April 5 through May 2, 2020.

The Art Auction will begin at 6:00 PM with a hosted bar and ample food stations as guests enter their silent auction bids. We are pleased to announce Sotheby’s as the official auction house partner. The highlight of the evening is the exciting live auction led by Auctioneer Quig Bruning of Sotheby’s Auction House. The Live Auction is powered by Artsy, enabling art lovers from around the world and in the room to follow the live auction and place bids online. The live auction will begin at 8 PM, after which silent auction lots will close to conclude the evening.

Guests at this year’s auction will have exclusive access to special-edition Art Auction 2020 paddles created by artist June Edmonds. These limited quantity paddles are available to Gold Circle ticket purchasers. Gold Circle ticket holders will also be able to preview the works and receive tours and curatorial counsel at a private VIP Preview Reception on April 4, 5-7 pm. Mobile bidding will open at the VIP preview.

Art Auction 2020 tickets are on sale now.