A tiny rabbit tea party, a vintage piece from Karen Markland that will be up for bids at the Guild’s Chicago auction.
Of course the Guild’s message is most strongly evident at our own show where the Guild mission is front and center across the entire event, but in order to get our message to the widest possible audience, IGMA also maintains a presence at other shows. At the Chicago International Show, Tom Bishop very kindly assists us by providing time and space at what might be the world’s largest dollhouse miniatures event, its certainly the largest in the United States. This year the Chicago International runs from April 21-23, with workshops held in the days preceding the show. The Guild adds to the show’s list of events with a gala auction, an introductory presentation, a membership table and a sales gallery stocked with pieces created by its Artisan and Fellow members.
Blue and white porcelain by Jean Yingling destined for the IGMA Chicago auction.
Friday night’s gala auction will feature many one of a kind pieces donated by Guild members and a lively repartee between the audience and the auctioneer, this year that will be Bill Robertson holding the gavel. When two bidders are determined to come out on top, the bidding can soar, but many items are had for very reasonable prices and its a great place to find vintage treasures.
Saturday evening the Guild presentation comes at the end of sales hours and offers an introduction to the Guild and its many programs. The presentation wraps up with a look at Guild School, complete with photos and a brief panel discussion by teachers, students and guests about the whole school experience.
A vintage green leather chair by Judy Beals, author of How to Build Furniture and Room Settings.
The IGMA membership table and the Gallery of the Guild tables can be found in the center aisle of the Blue Ballroom. The Guild Administrator, Carol Hardy and Guild School Director, Barbara Davis will be there to answer questions on the organization and school. Carol Block and other volunteers will be behind the Gallery table, ready to help you select from the amazing work of Guild members.
