GOOD NEWS: Art auction, Festival of Lights, SEWE poster

Artists join for benefit auction to help victims’ families

“For Lemonade,” by Alana Knuff, 12×16 oil on linen: “This was inspired by late afternoon light streaming upon some lemons. It reminded me that the bitterness of life turns sweet if we so choose.”

Artists for Emanuel is a collective November art auction of 90 Charleston artists to raise funds for the families of the victims of the June murders at Emanuel AME Church.

The auction, called “Straight From the Heart,” currently offers several artworks for viewing online here. Not only can you bid on the items, but there also is a “buy it now” option that starts Nov. 4 for those interested in getting a particular piece before the public bidding.

One artist notes, “When unreasonable acts of violence occur due to the twisted thoughts of an individual, the painful losses endure far beyond the immediate.  In a small way, the community of Charleston artists have come together to raise funds for the families.”

The auction, slated for 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., on Nov. 11, will be at the Cigar Factory, 701 East Bay Street. You’re expected to wear “art gallery chic.”

• For more information, go here.

In other good news:

Holiday Festival of Lights sneak peek: Runners and walkers can get a sneak peak of annual Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park with two non-competitive Fun Run and Walk events set for Nov. 11 and 12. The events are now open for registration ($12 per person) here. Rates go up Nov. 11. On-site tickets will not be sold.

“Because much of the Holiday Festival of Lights is normally seen from a vehicle, the Fun Run and Walk is the way to go for seeing the entire light show up close,” according to a press release. “Attendees will get a preview of the festival’s 700+ illuminated displays and amenities, including gift shops, marshmallow roasting, train and carousel rides, and so much more!” The Holiday Festival of Lights will run this year from Nov. 13, 2015, to Jan. 3, 2016.

SEWE’s 2016 painting unveiled. “Power and Grace” is the featured painting for the 2016 Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, which will be held Feb. 12-14 in Charleston. The painting, by artist Kyle Sims, will be featured on the event’s official poster. The painting depicts a grizzly bear. It was inspired by hikes in the artist’s home state of Montana. More: SEWE.com

Baker Motors honored. Charleston’s Baker Motor Company last week was named the No. 1 dealership in the United States and Canada on Automotive News 100 Best Dealerships To Work For 2015 list. “It fills my heart to know my employees feel so positively about working here.” owner Tommy Baker said. “It’s a compliment to all of us, both management and team members. Everyone is family at Baker Motor Company, and we all share in this achievement.”