The American Folk Art Museum (AFAM) announced today the forthcoming launch of an online benefit auction presented in partnership with Artsy. The auction opens at 5:00 p.m. ET on November 3, 2021.

Over 50 artists have contributed artworks to this important initiative, including Cindy Sherman, Sanford Biggers, KAWS, Trenton Doyle Hancock, LeRone Wilson, Nicole Eisenman, Nicolas Party, Amy Hill, Marcel Dzama, Jenny Holzer, Karla Knight, James Siena, Polly Apfelbaum, and Betty Tompkins.

Proceeds from the auction will be used to strengthen the Museum’s learning and engagement programs for audiences of all ages, as well as ensure free access to its galleries, online resources, archives, and library.

“Now in its second year, our partnership with Artsy brings together cutting-edge artists and the American Folk Art Museum,” said Karley Klopfenstein, Director of Development at AFAM. “The funds raised through the auction will help support educators, curators, and the next generation of museum leaders.

The auction will consist of a collection of newly created and recent artworks, including paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, and mixed-media constructions. The artworks represent signature pieces from the artists’ unique practices. Paul Laster, an independent curator, critic, lecturer, and artist – with assistance from Renée Riccardo, an independent curator – are working with the Museum as strategic partners in this endeavor to reach artists through their extensive networks.

“The American Folk Art Museum is a wonderful center for another generation to experience historical gems in a context with knowledge and heart,” said contemporary artist Polly Apfelbaum.

Artist Amy Hill commented: “The American Folk Art Museum is an essential part of New York culture and a great place to find inspiration.”

“I’m participating in the auction because I collect and support outsider or folk, self-taught art,” said Cindy Sherman.

About the American Folk Art Museum

The American Folk Art Museum engages people of all backgrounds through its collections, exhibitions, publications, and programs as the leading forum shaping the understanding and appreciation of folk and self-taught art across time and place. The Museum is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2021.