By Kathy L. Collins

If you love art and want to support two local non-profits, then plan on attending Saint Francis of Assisi 2nd Annual Celebration of Life Art Auction on Saturday, October 3 from 6-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 and includes parking.

All of the proceeds from the event will benefit Knight’s Women’s Center of Tampa and LifeCare of Brandon. Both non-profits serve pregnant women, children and families.

The 2nd Annual Celebration of Life Art Auction will feature art of local artists as well as artists from around the area. There will be a live auction featuring artwork from some of the greater Brandon area’s most talented artists including Bryant Martinez, Roxanne Tobaison, Susan Jenkins and Randy Matthews.

Diana Niles, a member of the auction committee said, “Getting artists like Bryant Martinez to participate in this event is a Godsend.”

Martinez, Winthrop Town Centre’s Artist and founder of the Winthrop Art Festival and the Winthrop Arts Factory said, “I was happy to do this. Saint Francis is my favorite patron saint.”

Martinez’ work will be featured in the live auction.

Tobaison, a renowned painter and jewelry maker from Brandon said, “I donated artwork because it is going toward a good cause.”

Tobaison donated an original watercolor, two framed prints, exotic wood jewelry and matted prints.

Niles said, “The artists have been great to work with for this event. Some of the artwork created by the artists who are participating is worth thousands of dollars. You will have an opportunity to bid on this priceless artwork during the live auction.”

In addition, there will be a silent auction which will feature items such as gift cards, matted prints and jewelry. Niles said, “If you cannot bid on original artwork, there will be other items in the silent auction. Anyone can come and support the local non-profits.”

Attendees will also be treated to appetizers courtesy of Beef O’Brady’s of Seffner, wine and delectable desserts.

Tickets will be available for purchase online by mid September. Tickets can also be purchased at the door. Visit www.stfranciscc.com or call 681-9115. Saint Francis of Assisi is located at 4450 C.R. 579 in Seffner.

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