When you think of Springs, you think of artists. So many have come from that area of the Hamptons, and it is ridiculous. Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and John Ferren worked there. Writers such as Kurt Vonnegut, Joseph Heller, Philip Roth, Nora Ephron, and John Steinbeck have all called Springs home.
You never know when the next Jackson Pollack is going to rise out of Springs, but a unique way of finding a new star artist is happening next weekend. After a few years off due to COVID-19, the Springs Mystery Art Sale is returning to Ashawagh Hall on June 7 and 8. Chaired by Casey Dalene, this event will feature approximately 900 pieces of 5 x 7-inch artwork, each available for purchase at $20.
But what makes this art event super cool is that as you browse through the art, you have no idea who actually did the work. The artists’ identities range from local students to well-known professionals, so choose wisely!
The Mystery Art Sale first gained popularity in 2014 and has been a beloved community event ever since. This year, it promises to be bigger than ever, featuring artwork created by students from Springs School as well as pieces contributed by professional artists. Students from pre-K through eighth grade have worked with their art teachers to produce about 700 postcard-sized works for the show.
In addition to student artwork, Dalene has reached out to local artists, expecting around 150-200 pieces from professionals. Some notable participants include world-famous painter April Gornik, Hiroyuki Hamada, Scott Bluedorn, Dan Welden, Montauk photographer James Katsipis, Elizabeth Karsch, Beth Barry, Alison Seiffer, and printmaker Kym Fulmer, as well as Springs School art teacher Laura Merino.
All proceeds from the sale will go towards art programs at Springs School.
The Springs Mystery Art Sale will open to the public on Friday, June 7, from 5–8 p.m. and continue on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The closing party, where the identities of the artists will be revealed, will begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday with a non-alcoholic toast to the artists and continue until 8 p.m. Artwork may be picked up from 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday, June 9.
Artists interested in participating in the Springs Mystery Art Sale can email [email protected] for more information.
