Gallery Aferro is thrilled to announce the 5th Annual Benefit Art Auction and Party on June 15th. This festive event features hundreds of artworks and experiences by emerging and established artists, live jazz by the William Spaulding Quartet, seasonal foodstuffs, strong signature cocktails as well as icy beer from Hunterdon Brewery, and many, many wonderful door prizes including but not limited to fine dining experiences, theatre tickets, and gifts from McCarter Theatre, Stencil1, Shy Brothers Farm and others.

All proceeds from tickets and purchases make possible Gallery Aferro's year-round exhibitions, award-winning artist residencies, publications and expanding education program. Gallery Aferro is a nonprofit alternative arts space founded by artists Evonne M. Davis and Emma Wilcox in 2003, offering engaging exhibitions that connect new audiences in a welcoming environment that builds community and reflects a positive image of Newark.  The gallery has received two back-to-back Citations of Excellence from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and has been described by Inside New Jersey magazine as offering "a dizzying array of contemporary art." The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation has praised our “expansive vision, impact in Newark as well as regionally and even internationally”, and our “exemplary mentoring opportunities for young artists.”

For one night only unique artworks by emerging and established artists will be available for sale at prices that will enlarge or establish your collection. Delight a friend, colleague or loved one with the gift of artwork. Bring someone who's never been to the gallery, or to Newark, or someone you come with every year. Bask in the knowledge that you've supported downtown vibrancy, the free exchange of ideas, and arts access for the next generation. Dance and have fun.

Gallery Aferro has exhibited over 500 local, national and international artists, granted workspace to more than 60 artists, created 21 publications including a sound art CD and feminist art history handouts, collaborated with dozens of other community-based organizations, galleries and museums, hosted and created talks, screenings and demonstrations for high schools, colleges, universities, professional and senior groups, created off-site exhibition opportunities for NJ artists and expanded our educational offerings, starting with our program connecting Newark’s young women with creative experiences and computer literacy.

Sponsors: AMC, Cabot, Canvas on Demand, Canvas4Life, Clearview Cinemas, Field Station Dinosaurs, Fresh Direct,Hunterdon Brewery, Larry Litt, McCarter Theatre, Minted, NJ State Theatre, Old Sturbridge Village, Panera Bread, Portrait Innovations, Redbox, Remco Press, Shy Brothers Farm, Spanish Tavern, Stash Tea, Stencil1, Tom Binh, Two River Theatre.