ALLENTOWN, Pa. – From a street sketch by Walter Baum, to a Salubrious summer scene, to stuffed and or oiled poultry, to Percussive pottery.
They’re all part of the 500 pieces making up the Baum School of Art’s 41st Art Auction. Bidding began Saturday, May 16 at 6:30 p.m. and will end Saturday, May 23 at 10 p.m.
“It provides a lot of necessary operating funds for us to be able to operate throughout the year with classes and programs for all ages,” said Executive Director Shannon Fugate.
Online since the pandemic, opening bids can start at $50 or $31,000. Art under a new light.
Fugate says from the ceiling to the floors, the Allentown building itself is a product of its own new design.
After its May 2025 groundbreaking, $7.3 million total renovation added a third gallery, new and renovated classrooms, with no area left untouched.
“Allow us to have more programs, more classes, and more access for our community to come experience all of the benefits of the arts,” Fugate said.
Founded in 1926 by artist Walter Emerson Baum, the school’s mission is to expand showcase and teach a variety of art forms.
At its 5th and Linden locations since 1987, with the last major renovation in 2001.
Renovations at a time when adult program attendance has increased 40% in recent years, with 3700 kids in their youth programs. Emmaus’s Mary Benner has been a Baum student for 3 years.
“What do you like about taking classes here?” 69 News reporter Bo Koltnow asked.
“Well, I love Monica (instructor), the renovations and the camaraderie,” she said.
While some may sell for thousands at auction, the value of art is personal.
“All of these pieces then tell our story in our homes and in our lives, and art is so important for that,” Fugate said.
For more information, visit the website.