One of Tallahassee's most popular art auctions happened the evening of Saturday, June 28 at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. It was the yearly Artopia event to benefit Big Bend Cares. It was also the first year the executive director of Big Bend Cares hasn't been named Rob Renzi. Upon this retirement earlier this year, Amber Tynan took over.
"It's so great to see our community come out for an incredible cause," she said. "As you know it's our 40th year and to really celebrate the history of the work that we've done. A success and celebration of life and I'm just so thrilled to be a part of it."
Dozens of local, regional and even national artists donated scores of creative works that went up for bid. Tynan assessed the impact of the annual art auction that filled the Civic Center's vast exhibit hall.
"It's huge! It's our signature fundraising event every single year. It raises about 10% of our income. And we're able to collect amazing art from local artists, regional artists (and) national artists."
Today, Big Bend Cares has expanded its mission to promoting general health care and community wellness.
