"Hill Girl"

Artist: Zak Barnes

19x43, oil on canvas, 2019

Value: $2,800
Provided by Zak Barnes

 

About the artist
Click here to read about this artist.

"Starry Night Barn"

Artist: Louis Copt


24x24, oil on canvas, 2020
Gallery wrapped with painted edges.


Value: $1,950
Provided by Louis Copt

 

About the artist
Click here to read about this artist.

"Hammerhead"

Artist: Zak Barnes

19x28, oil on canvas, 2019

Value: $1,400
Provided by Zak Barnes

 

About the artist
Click here to read about this artist.

"Prairie on Fire"

Artist: Louis Copt

12x24, oil on canvas, 2020
Gallery wrapped with painted edges.

Value: $950
Provided by Louis Copt

 

About the artist
Click here to read about this artist.

"Dog & Friends"

Artist: F. Gene Ernst (1929-2013)
original watercolor,
12 x 6.5, 2011
Framing with acid-free mat and conservation glass by Strecker Nelson West Custom Frames

About the artist
F. Gene Ernst,  a Manhattan, Kan. native, earned a Bachelor’s of Architecture in 1953 from Kansas State University and a Master’s of Architecture from the University of Washington in 1971. He practiced architecture in Louisiana and Kansas and taught architecture at KSU from 1967 to 1992, retiring as Professor Emeritus.

Ernst was a corporate member of the American Institute of Architects. He was a founding member of the Columbian Artists; the Watercolor Studio of the Manhattan Arts Center; and a member of Mountain Aire Painters of Crested Butte – Gunnison Colorado, and the Kansas Watercolor Society. Gene painted en plein aire, as weather permited, and traveled and painted in several European and South American countries. His watercolors have been shown at Kansas State University, the Gunnison, Colo., Center for the Arts, Manhattan Arts Center, Mulvane Art Museum, and the Kauffman Museum.

Value: $380
Donated by Steve Ernst

"Explorers"

Artist: C.A. Seward
(1884-1939)  

Matted and framed etching, signed and titled by artist 
1936 Kansas Sate University Friends of Art Gift Print
Etching size: 6 x 4.75
Framed size: 13 x 10.5


About the artist
Coy Avon Seward is known as a fine artist, art educator, an author of books on printmaking, and as a promoter of the arts. A native of Chase, Kan., he spent most of his years in Wichita. He gives credit to Birger Sandzen, whom he took classes with, as being a major influence in his pursuit of Lithography. During his lifetime his work as an innovative printmaker received national and international acclaim, and it continues to be sought after today.

The primary focus of Seward’s prints were that of landscapes and towns. Seward was a founding member of the Wichita Art Association, Wichita Art Museum, and the Wichita Artists’ Guild. He also was a member of California Printmakers; Prairie Print Makers (Charter Member), and Kansas State Federation of Art.

Value: $400

"Sun Salute"

Artist: F. Gene Ernst (1929-2013)
22 x 14, print
Donor: Steve Ernst
Donor note: Only one or two prints of this painting exist. Ernst owns the original painting.

In addition, this item includes a certificate for $250 in custom framing from Strecker Nelson West Gallery. Certificate applies to framing for this print only. Options include an acid-free mat, conservation glass, and a frame chosen from literally hundreds of styles. High bidder pays the difference if framing choices total more than $250.   

About the artist
F. Gene Ernst,  a Manhattan, Kan. native, earned a Bachelor’s of Architecture in 1953 from Kansas State University and a Master’s of Architecture from University of Washington in 1971. He practiced architecture in Louisiana and Kansas and taught architecture at KSU from 1967 to 1992, retiring as Professor Emeritus.

Gene was a Corporate Member of the American Institute of Architects. He is a founding member of the Columbian Artists; the Watercolor Studio of the Manhattan Arts Center; and a member of Mountain Aire Painters of Crested Butte – Gunnison Colorado, and the Kansas Watercolor Society. Gene painted en plein aire, as weather permited, and traveled and painted in several European and South American countries. His watercolors have been shown at Kansas State University, the Gunnison, Colo., Center for the Arts, Manhattan Arts Center, Mulvane Art Museum, and the Kauffman Museum.

Value: $350
Donated by Steve Ernst and Strecker Nelson West Gallery

"Early Spring"

Artist: Jeff Mataruso

Original acrylic, 1999
7.25 x 9.25
Framed size: 14 x 16

About the artist
Mataruso took several art
classes while studying architecture at Kansas State. He was an architect and chief illustrator with an architecture firm before moving to Junction City in 2003.

He paints with acrylics and watercolors and draws with graphite, pen, and ink. Mataruso is inspired by the Kansas landscape in spring and fall. "I concentrate on active skies and what happens with light when it penetrates the clouds."

Mataruso is a retired Army officer of 31 years, spending one year in Afghanistan with Operation Enduring Freedom. He is Master Planner for the Department of Public Works at Ft. Riley.


Value: $225

Donated by Jay & Barbara Nelson

Fredic Duclos "Vanessa" Necklace

This silver and rose gold-plated beauty is from the Silver & Rose Extraordinaire collection from French designer Fredric Duclos. Four concentric oval rings – the center loop shimmers with a diamond-cut detail – hang from an 18-inch cable chain with extension. This piece is sure to attract attention, whether you’re dressing up or down.
 

About Frederic Duclos

Frederic Duclos is an award winning French designer of contemporary sterling silver jewelry. This family owned design studio, based in Huntington Beach, Calif., was created under the guidance of Karen and Frederic Duclos in 1984.

In the early years, the couple produced for elite designers who wanted access to impeccable quality. In the mid-90’s, Frederic found a comfortable niche in independent fine jewelry stores, and these have been his primary retail partners for over two decades.

Value: $248
Donated by Tim & Becky Fitzgerald and Pfeifley Jewelers

Flower Power

Flowers have been used as a form of communication for hundreds of years, and with our Flower Power package, you’ll be able to send several beautiful messages or treat yourself. Acme Gift, Hoja, Kistner’s Flowers, and Steve’s Floral have teamed up to give the lucky winner of this item colorful ways to remember any occasion or add to your seasonal décor. Say “happy birthday,” “get well soon,” “welcome home,” or simply “I’m thinking of you” with pretty posies or a potted plant.

About the gift cards
Acme Gift - $60 toward any floral arrangement. May include delivery fee. Expires 10/2021

Hoja - $75 toward any plants and/or gifts in store. Expires 07/2021

Kistner's Flowers - $50 toward any store item, may include Manhattan delivery fee. No expiration.

Steve's Floral - $60 toward any store item. No expiration.

Value: $245
Donated by Steve's Floral, Kistner's Flowers, Hoja, and Acme Gift
Note: Photos are representative of floral designs and plants offered through these businesses, but prices of items may not correspond to gift card values.

On Cloud Wine

Package includes three bottles of cabernet sauvignon – one from Sonoma Valley, two from Napa Valley – a hand-crafted meat and cheese board, and ingredients for your next charcuterie platter.

About the wine

~ From California, Sonoma County, Rodney Strong 2016 is a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with a rich blackberry, cocoa and smoky vanilla flavors on the palate. The 2016 vintage matured for 16 months in three-quarters American and one-quarter French oak barrels. Decant for two hours prior to pouring with meaty well-marbled steak.

Heartcraft by Ca’ Momi. Everyday wines for rebellious souls; born in the heart of the new Napa Valley. Pair with beef, lamb, venison, poultry or hard cheese. The 2018 is rated among the top 6% of wines in the world.

~ A combination of five pedigreed Napa Valley vineyards, the Myriad Napa hits on all cylinders. Red and blue fruits combine with an upfront and bold entry that is round and plush. Traditional Rutherford dust tannins fill the mid-palate with hints of cocoa powder, marionberry, and detailed clove spice characters. Rich layers of dark chocolate followed by slight forest floor notes glide into a beautiful long and lingering finish. Enjoy this early drinker over the next 1-6 years.

About the tray

~ Crafted from hackberry and finished with five coats of lacquer by William “Knick” Knicklebine of Ogden
~ Knots and voids filled with blue epoxy resin
~ Dimensions: 12” x 19”
~ Bottom signed by craftsman and finished with small rubber dots to protect wood tables and other surfaces.

Value: $225
Donated by Nespor’s Wine & Spirits and Knick’s Woodworking for Kansas Quality Woodworkers
Association

 

"Winter Rose"

Artist: Terry Maxwell

Reproduction print created from original watercolor, 2003
Painting size: 16 x 20
Framed dimensions:
18 x 22
Professionaly framed, including acid-free mat, by Strecker Nelson West Custom Frames

Print donated by Tim & Becky Fitzgerald


About the artist
Since completing his master of arts degree in 1975, Maxwell has worked as a full-time artist from his home in Emporia, Kan. His watercolors have been extensively exhibited and acknowledged, both regionally and nationally.

Maxwell's paintings dispaly intense and vibrant color. "I intend to create visual stimuli that challenges the viewer," he said.

Value: $200
 

Recently Photography Mini-Session

We've all been wearing masks for months. Let Sarah Killian of Recently Photography capture your smiles to share. A 20-minute portrait session is perfect for engagement photos, baby announcements, and family portraits. It's not too early to plan for personalized Christmas photo cards! 

Package includes 20 high quality images, rights included. Location to be determined within 10 miles of Manhattan. Additional fees apply if requesting a longer session, a location outside a 10-mile radius, or more images. 

Value: $225
Donated by Sarah Killian

Expires: 06/2021

"Winter Tallgrass"

Artist: James Nedresky

11 x 17 photograph on paper, matted, 2002

High bidder also receives a 20%-off certificate for framing of this item from Strecker Nelson West Custom Frames


About the artist
A professional photographer since 1993, Nedresky moved to eastern Kansas from Chicago in 1994. At that time, he began to explore the Flint Hills, which would become a very special place to him, both personally and professionally. 

This region of tall grass prairie defied the standard preconception of Kansas being flat and uninteresting. The enigmatic nature of a relatively unfeatured, minimal landscape, both subtle and dramatic, presented a photographic challenge unlike that of any other place Nedresky had been. He strives to make images that promote an awareness of the region's beauty, vitality, and the importance of preserving our largest remaining area of unplowed tall grass prairie. 

Value: $125
Donated by Jay & Barbara Nelson

"Salina Night"

Artist: Ralph Fontenot


original watercolor, 4 x 4, 2001
Matted and framed

About the artist
Ralph Fontenot served USD 383 as an art teacher for 39 years before retiring in 2017 and was one of Art Mingle 2018’s featured artists. Fontenot came to Junction City, Kan. because his father was a career military man. Having attended both Kansas University and Kansas State, he credits his study with Oscar Larmer at KSU with teaching him how to paint. One of Ralph's greatest strengths as a painter is his ability to render local subjects from an angle or in a manner that gifts the viewer with a new perspective on a familiar scene. 

Value: $100

Folk Ark

Artist: Unknown
clay, 16.5 x 14


This whimsical ark and its occupants seems to be buoyed by magic, mythology, and perhaps a few fairy tales. A pair of wizards, two mermaids, and a couple of unicorns occupy the ark’s deck, while peeking from portholes, two-by-two, are mice, elves, and an ogre man and woman. Two winged horses rest separately outside, waiting to join their fantastical friends on board.

This sculpted reimagining of Noah and his ark was purchased in the late 1970s or early 1980s at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival by the late Anthony “Tony” Jurich; the piece was proudly displayed in the Manhattan home he shared with his wife of 23 years, Olivia Collins. Jurich was a professor at Kansas State University.

Value: $400
Donated by Olivia Collins

Kantha Fashion

You art what you wear! This one-of-a-kind, tunic-length jacket was stitched of Kantha cloth by local seamstress Sabine Leonhard. Reversible with elbow-length sleeves and a high-low hem. One size fits many.


Value: $100
Donated by Kate Cashman

"Charles Schiller - Root Cellar"

Artist: Tom Parish

Epson Ultrachrome Print on Archival Paper,
22 x 10.5
Titled and signed by the artist
Framing by Strecker Nelson West Custom Frames, with conservation glass

About the artist

Tom Parish is an artist, photographer, designer, public historian, educator, and archivist and has worked on projects that range from web and interactive design to branding and exhibit design. His artwork has been displayed in many regional galleries, and he’s been awarded commissions from major galleries and museums as well as a major grant from the Kansas Humanities Council (see www.flinthillshelters.com). Tom earned a Master of Fine Arts in Photography and Digital Art from Kansas State University and now teaches graphic arts at Flint Hills Technical College in Emporia, Kan.

Charles Schiller – Root Cellar was one of several images included in a 2014 exhibit at Kansas State’s Beach Museum of Art titled Take Shelter: An Installation by Tom Parish. A print similar to Charles Schiller – Root Cellar was the 2014 Friends of the Beach Museum of Art Gift Print.
Root cellar location:
Jefferson Township, Geary County

Value: $325
Print donated by Tom Parish

Rhapsody in Blue and Green

Designer: April Wagnon

Turquoise and peridot necklace: 11 inches

Matching turquoise and peridot bracelet: 7.5 inches

Turquoise and silver bracelet: 7.25 inches

A necklace and bracelet set and an additional three-strand beauty were created by local jewelry designer and Acme Gift manager April Wagnon. 

About the jewelry

The necklace and bracelet set are composed of hand-cut natural peridot, all- natural turquoise, and Thailand's Hill Tribe  silver beads, and each closes with a sterling silver clasp. The peridot gemstone has been prized since the earliest civilizations for its protective powers to drive away fears and nightmares. It's believed to carry the gift of inner radiance, sharpening the mind and opening it to new levels of awareness and growth, helping one to recognize and realize one’s destiny and spiritual purpose. In many cultures of the Old and New Worlds, the turquoise gemstone has been esteemed for thousands of years as a holy stone, a bringer of good fortune or a talisman of kings, shamans and warriors. Native Americans believe turquoise to be the oldest stone in man's history and consider it a stone of protection.

 The three-strand bracelet was created with all-natural, hand-cut turquoise and sterling silver hand-stamped from Thailand’s Hill Tribe peoples. The clasp is fashioned from a leather loop and Mercury dime. Mercury dimes were minted in the US from late 1916 to 1945 and composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.

Value: $170

Donated by Olivia Collins

Fair Trade Sampler Basket

Woven in Bangladesh from kaisa in rich shades of orange, brown, and black, a Countryside Basket holds several products found at ROOTED, a fair trade boutique in Downtown Manhattan. The lucky high bidder will find the following tucked inside:

Twin Engine “Estate” Ground Coffee: Twin Engine searched high and higher for the best tastes in high-altitude Arabica beans. Nicaraguan caturra and bourbon varieties offer phenomenal body and beautiful complexity with a range of sensations. The Estate Blend exhibits what is great about Nicaraguan coffee. Single source, organic and fair trade!
Purple Tiny Bone Rounded Diamond Studs: Made from upcycled animal bone in partnership with a local butcher shop in Delhi, India, these upcycled bone stud earrings are nickel free and the perfect addition to any stud-wearers jewelry collection.
Equal Exchange Organic Hot Cocoa Mix: Delicious fairly traded organic hot cocoa has a rich chocolatey flavor that children and adults will love.
~  Purple Stone Kisii Heart: Hand-carved from one piece of soapstone with a machete then wet sanded smooth, these bright colored dyed hearts from Kenya bring joy wherever they are found.
~ Batik Cotton Coin Purse: From Bangladesh, this coin purse is hand-dyed using the batik dyeing technique. This technique involves using wax to create patterns on the fabric that then prevent that area from receiving the dye.

Retail value: $60
Donated by ROOTED Fair Trade, Kevin Cook and Laura Weiss-Cook, owners.

About ROOTED
ROOTED specializes in certified fair trade products that directly support the makers or growers and that are created under fair working conditions. Products sold are rooted in their communities of origin, and the process of getting these products to you focuses on equity, sustainability, fairness, and capacity building. Store owners Laura Weiss-Cook, Kevin Cook, and their daughter, Audrey, are proud to be part of the greater Manhattan community and can’t wait for you to visit their store at 327 Poyntz.