The Estevan Art Gallery and Museum (EAGM) celebrated the printmaking skills of the late Andrew King during the "Welcome to the Circus" art auction and soiree on October 20 at the EAGM.
Seven of King's prints were auctioned off: "Woman Gazing at Midway," "Trumpet Girl," "Shrine Circus: Edmonton Gardens," "Jimmi Lynch's Death Dodgers: Prince Albert Fair," "Conklin Shows," "Trapeze Girl" and an anonymous print.
Three other King prints were available during a silent auction.
Proceeds from the auction will go towards the further maintenance, development and promotion of the EAGM's Andrew King Collection, which is the largest collection of his works in Canada.
King created the first poster-making company in Canada, King Enterprise Showprints, in 1912 when he was living in Rouleau. He brought the business with him to Estevan when he relocated to the city in 1944. King used his printmaking wood blocks to create many posters for circuses and fairs in Canada.
EAGM curator-director Amber Andersen said she has enjoyed reading and learning about King, and the contributions he made through his business.
Circus-themed appetizers were served to about 50 people who attended the fundraiser. King's grandson, Bob King, was among those who were present.
The EAGM also unveiled a catalogue that it is selling that showcases King's prints during the soiree.
