TOPSHAM — Habitat for Humanity 7 Rivers plans to host an online auction, “Love to Build,” through Saturday, Feb. 26.
The auction features works by Brunswick artist Valerie Upham, who painted 20 works featuring Maine flora, fauna and landscapes on reclaimed wood, according to a news release from 7 Rivers.
“While shopping at the ReStore, I saw beautifully hand-crafted bookcases. Executive Director Adam Lacher told me that they are built by volunteers and sold to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity 7 Rivers. I asked if there was any scrap wood, and he said “yes,” Upham said. “I knew right then that I wanted to create original works of art for Habitat to auction to support a cause near to my heart. That is how the “Love to Build” project took off.”
The works will be on display from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at the Topsham ReStore, 126 Main St.
Paintings can be previewed online at habitat7rivers.org; Bids start at $100 for each original work. Bidding will close at 6 p.m. Feb. 26.
All proceeds will be donated to Habitat for Humanity 7 Rivers, whose efforts support homeownership opportunities for families with limited incomes.
Upham studied commercial design while attending a vocational high school. She graduated from Massachusetts College of Art and Design in 1982 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Illustration and Graphic Design. She worked in the commercial advertising industry for more than 15 years as a designer, art director and creative director.
Upham has been recognized with numerous awards for her portraits, still lifes and landscapes. A lifelong passion for the ocean and nature are the inspiration behind her art.
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