Benefit auction and party

This fall, collectors and art lovers will have the rare opportunity to see and bid on an unprecedented collection of artworks from the estate of legendary Artspace founder Anne MacDonald as the 500 Capp Street Foundation unveils its 2023 Benefit Auction. Available to view both online on Artsy and in person at 500 Capp Street, more than 50 artworks have been drawn from MacDonald’s personal collection including pieces by some of the Bay Area’s iconic artists from the 1980s and 90s including Nayland Blake, David Dashiell, Karen Finley, Paul Kos, Tony Labat, Tom Marioni, Irene Pijoan, and Rigo 23. 

The auction will be celebrated at a special Benefit Auction Party on October 5 with performances, festivities, a select live auction, hors d’oeuvres and libations by chef Leif Hedendal, and special honor given to artist Tony Labat, who, among his many other significant contributions to the art world, documented David Ireland’s daily work actions on the house at 500 Capp Street. A VIP Hour prior to the main event will feature performances by Jennifer Locke and Kal Spelletich.

“Honoring Anne MacDonald’s legacy alongside Tony Labat’s is exceedingly meaningful for 500 Capp Street,” says Jennifer Rissler, Interim Executive Director, 500 Capp Street. “Anne’s unwavering support of local artists, including Tony, is reflected in her collection, which comprises the bulk of our auction this year. Tony’s enduring relationship with David Ireland is really a testament to the porosity of art and life—and a reflection of David’s magnum opus. Anne’s 2018 obituary in Artforum concludes with: “Should you be interested in acknowledging Anne’s passing with a donation, in the true spirit of Anne, please consider supporting a local artist of your choice.” This sentiment rings true through 500 Capp Street’s maxim: supporting us supports artists. The auction will be an extraordinary event.”

Available works can be viewed in person during regular hours or by appointment September 21–October 5 at 500 Capp Street, where they have been placed throughout the House. Both silent and live auction works are available to preview on Artsy. Artsy auction link here

The Benefit Auction Party takes place Thursday, October 5 from 6:30-9pm. Tickets are 150 USD. A VIP Hour takes place that same evening from 5:30–6:30pm. Tickets are 500 USD and include access to the Benefit Auction Party. Information and tickets: 500cappstreet.org/benefit-auction-2023/