Box art: Local artists create works to aid Heritage Hospice auction

Heritage Hospice Inc. is having its first Memorial Auction and several artists have contributed  their talents to make it a unique event.
The artists gave former cigar boxes and cheese boxes a new life by painting them. Each box took a different turn. Mike Welch of Junction City used a box made by a hospice volunteer’s husband to do a relief carving of a dogwood blossom. A chicken was the subject of an oil painting by David Farmer of Danville. Jan Aumiller of Danville decorated her box with stained glass. Janet Rothwell of Hustonville painted a primitive village scene on her box.
All the boxes, each containing a surprise coupon from area merchants, will be on display for a silent auction 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. May 20 at the Danville Country Club.
Other artists participating are: Kim Ballard, Ella Clay, Alison Craig, David Cornwell, Stacy Erlandson, Crystal Epley, Bob Gundy, Cole Henson, Jim Kelly, Barbara Lockhart, Mary Larsen, Sarah Larsen, Bonnie Purcell, Aaron Raitiere, Virginia Robertson, Willie Sherwood, Tillie Sowders, Debbie Webb, Paul O. Whitaker, Pat Williams, Vicky Wright and Madelyn Worley.
Boyle County High School independent art study students also have created outstanding boxes. Madison Noel worked with tiny seeds of the wawa tree. The seeds are extremely hard, and are symbols of someone who is strong and tough in the Akan culture of Africa. The seed inspires the individual to persevere.
Other Boyle High students participating are Tori Hallmark, Elena Raffay, Kassie Samford, Natalie Settle, Katie Upton and Jessica Whitaker.  
Boyle High art teacher Carrie Snow, who also is participating, says she is impressed by her students’ efforts.
“I’m always amazed by their artistic ability and their creativity and willingness to give back to the community with this project and the hospital art project.”
Silent auctions for boxes painted by Mercer and Garrard high students already were held. The two boxes receiving the highest bids will be on display. Epley’s children, who are homeschooled, also will have their boxes on display. They are Claudia and Caitlyn.
Several of the boxes are on display through Tuesday at the Boyle County Public Library.
The auction also features items signed by Jacob Tamme, Boyle native and tight end for the Indianapolis Colts. Stonewheel of Louisville will perform. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available. Cash, checks or credit cards will be accepted for payment on items.
Tickets are $50 per person or $90 per couple. For more information, call Emily Toadvine by Tuesday at (859) 236-2425.

Emily Toadvine is community relations coordinator for Heritage Hospice.