Ways2Raise

What is it?

Hosting an Art Exhibition and Auction is a fantastic way for creative teens to showcase their talents while raising funds for their trip. By displaying and auctioning off artwork—either your own or pieces contributed by friends and family—you can engage your community in a fun, cultural event that also supports your fundraising goals.

Why does it work?

People love supporting young artists and unique local events, especially when they get to take home original pieces. The auction format creates excitement and encourages competitive bidding, often driving prices higher than fixed sales. Plus, hosting an exhibition brings people together, increasing donations and awareness for your cause.

What you'll need

A selection of artwork to display (paintings, drawings, photographs, crafts)
A venue for the exhibition (community centre, school hall, local café, or library)
Auction paddles or bidding cards (can be homemade)
Display materials (easels, tables, hanging hooks, boards)
Invitations or flyers for advertising
A secure way to collect payments (cash box, card reader, or payment app)
Helpers to manage the event and auction
A pricing and bidding system (starting bids, bid increments, reserve prices if needed)
Labels and information cards for each artwork (title, artist, starting bid)

Step-by-step plan

1

Plan your exhibition by selecting a suitable venue that can comfortably display your artworks and accommodate attendees. Contact venue managers early to book your event for one evening.

2

Gather artworks from yourself, friends, family, or fellow creatives who want to support your cause. Ensure each piece is signed and has a clear starting bid price.

3

Advertise well in advance using flyers, social media, and community boards to invite local art lovers, family, and friends to your event.

4

Prepare your venue by arranging artworks attractively on walls or display stands. Label each piece with its title, artist’s name, and starting bid.

5

Explain the auction rules clearly at the start of the event: how bidding works, payment methods, and when the auction will close.

6

Run the auction, encouraging bidding and keeping track of highest bids. Use helpers to manage bids and payments smoothly.

7

After the auction, collect payments promptly and arrange for winners to take their artwork home. Thank all participants and supporters.

8

Follow up with a thank-you message on social media or email, sharing your fundraising success and expressing gratitude.

How to advertise it

Create eye-catching posters to display in local shops, schools, and community centres
Use Instagram and TikTok to share sneak peeks of the artwork and event details
Post in local Facebook groups and community event pages
Send personalised invitations via email or messaging apps to friends, family, and local art clubs
Contact local newspapers or radio stations to feature your event

Realistic earnings

Most teenagers can expect to raise between £100 and £500 with an art exhibition and auction, depending on the number of artworks, the interest level of your community, and the quality of promotion.

Top tips

✅ Enlist friends or family to help you organise and run the event for a smoother experience

✅ Include a mix of art prices so everyone can afford to bid on something

✅ Consider offering refreshments during the event to encourage people to stay longer and bid more

✅ Practice your auctioneer skills or ask someone confident to lead the bidding to keep the energy high

Common mistakes to avoid

⚠️ Not advertising enough in advance, resulting in low attendance

⚠️ Setting starting bids too high, which can discourage bidding

⚠️ Not having a clear system for tracking bids and payments, leading to confusion

Art Exhibition/Auction