Barter Night Out, The Event:
On May 8th, 2020, the doors and galleries of Northampton’s Anchor House of Artists will open to bartering, to show 30 original works - paintings, drawings, sculptures, and ceramics by veteran and emerging Valley artists. In the manner of an auction, the viewing allows the public to inspect the art. Bartering suggestions will be posted, and a welcoming desk will provide contact information. The Gallery will remain open to conveniently connect prospective barters to the art and to the artists. On May 15th, Anchor House will host a Barter Night Out party for the artists, for barterers, friends and family, and the residents of Pioneer Valley. The gallery will remain open for individual bartering until May 20th.
When a piece is chosen, the prospective barterer will be given the artist’s contact information, and then the “fun” begins. For example, a landscape painter might suggest a trade for a musical instrument, an oboe or piano. A barterer might reply with music or language lessons. A sculptor might suggest a photo session and a barterer might suggest pottery lessons. A ceramicist might want to barter for computer lessons or a cabin for the weekend. More? The artists expect imaginative thinking: A surreal painting might go for a pair of Maytags or even better, a rowboat. A restaurant may offer a dinner or a party. Feed a starving artist.
The bartering terms will be agreed on by email or in person, before May 15th, Barter Night Out public party, or privately until May 20th. At night out, one by one, the pieces of art will be held up, the deal makers identified, the bartering terms announced and then gaveled down by a “barter auctioneer.” With the broad range of art, artists and new acquisitions on both sides, and with food and a live band. Imaginative barters will be applauded. Perhaps a door prize, the Best of the Barters. Additional information is available at Anchor House of Artists.