On Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the annual University of Idaho Starving Artist Sale was hosted by the College of Art and Architecture. From sculptures to paintings and prints to jewelry, students, alumni, faculty and community members presented their work. The event was held in the Pitman Center.
Whether attendees were on the hunt for a piece to bring together a room or a one-of-a-kind item or simply enjoying the art, this was the perfect opportunity to support the 65 participants. Each booth was crafted with a touch of personal flare. A few artists did henna and caricatures live.
The diversity in style and taste was obvious looking around the rooms. Some artists presented femininity and frill, while others went for earthy or eccentric themes. What all of them had in common was their sense of individuality.
One table had daunting yet intriguing sketches of disturbed faces. Another had a collection of framed flowers. A few had different crocheted designs, from flowers to animals to clothing. Some put their prints into sticker form, making purchases more accessible to college students. The ingenuity and variety were outstanding features of the sale.
Liam Peterson’s booth, a whimsical collection of nature and cars, caught many eyes. With reprints and original copies available, his unique watercolor paintings were popular. Peterson shared that his inspiration for his combination of vehicles and natural elements is his love for “moving through nature with speed and motion.”
In an opposing style, Rosalie Duncan displayed her peculiar ceramic sculptures. Taking notes from “mythical things, stories and holidays,” Duncan found herself able to bring uncommon ideas to life. She said that the most gratifying aspect of participating in the Starving Artist Sale is “the connection between people once they buy my art.”
The event not only generated appreciation for the art community but also provided an opportunity to help those in need. Volunteers conducted a bone marrow drive to support Stacy Isenbarger, a UI art professor and assistant dean, as well as others fighting aplastic anemia.
With the booth outside the entrance, patrons were able to join the list of donors and write their well wishes on a poster for Isenbarger. The chance to help continues as donators are tested for compatibility.
Olivia Pham, a 2024 UI BFA graduate, said, “I am so grateful for this opportunity.” Currently located in Coeur d’Alene and hoping to become a full-time artist, she said, “As young artists starting out, we have the opportunity to learn about selling and to see that people appreciate what we make. It gives us hope that we can become mature artists.”
Proceeds from the sale will be distributed among graduate students to assist with expenses. The Starving Artist Sale is likely to be an enriching experience for participants and patrons for years to come.
Macy Gilbert can be reached at [email protected]