MOSES LAKE - Members of the Columbia Basin Allied Arts are collecting Basin artwork to auction at their fundraiser later this year.

The annual art soiree and auction is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 12 at the Masto Conference Center in Big Bend Community College's ATEC building, 7662 Chanute St. NE, Moses Lake.

"We've received some art already from generous artists in the area, but we are still looking for more," said Pat Daugherty, Allied Arts' executive director.

Daugherty said the annual art auction is the only fundraising event the organization holds.

Daugherty said community support is what helps Allied Arts survive year after year.

"We'll be heading into the 36th year of operation, and the money that allows us to continue comes from our members," she said.

Daugherty said there will be gourmet appetizers and regional beers and wines available at the auction. There will also be live music during the event, she said.

Participants will have the chance to visit with local artists and bid on artwork and other items during the event's silent and live auctions, said Daughtery.

Tickets for the art auction are $50, she said.

Moses Lake artist Melea Johnson will be the event's featured artist, said Daughtery. Johnson's abstract painting, "After the Day," will be the focus of the auction, she said.

Johnson has served on the Allied Arts' board in the past, said Daughtery. Johnson also shares the organization's interest in promoting local art, she said.

For more information about donating art or to purchase tickets for the auction call 509-793-2059.