For The Birds Birdhouse Benefit Helps Spokane Art School ‘Feather Our Nest’

If you’re homeless and a bird, April is a great month to migrate to Spokane.

The housing market here is hot, hot, hot for artsy birds and the people who love to attract them. And the chance to own the best birdhouse on the block comes Saturday at the Spokane Art School’s annual Birdhouse and TeaGarden Auction.

The auction, which benefits the school, was started as a way to “feather our nest,” said art school director Maureen Davidson. It’s become an enchanting night out where artists get a chance to be whimsical and bidders take a chance at adding unusual art to their homes - inside or out.

“We’ve had everything from castle birdhouses to a hand-woven hammock with birds attached to fullblown fountains,” said Davidson. “We’re not entirely sure what’s coming this year, but it’s always a wide variety.”

In fact, this year’s auction boasts about 70 items, more than ever before. Works include bird houses, feeders, baths (including one with a cat curled up in the middle), bird jewelry and books. Also available is art designed for use in the garden, including tiles, chimes, furniture, fountains, and new this year, teapots.

Well-known artists including Harold Balazs, Virginia Carter and Nina Lyman have contributed their original artwork to the auction. At least half the proceeds from each item will go to support the art school.

It also gives the artists a chance to try something fun or different. For example, Steve Adams, known for his elegant glass works, made a house out of beer bottle caps. There also will be a 10-foot gazebo in the shape of a birds’ nest on the block.

The whimsy begins at 7 p.m. with a cocktail supper to the tune of the Planet Lounge Orchestra. Bidding runs from 8 to 10:30 p.m. with desserts and celebrity auctioneers.

Tickets are $20 for art school members and $25 for others. Today is the last day for reservations. Call 328-0900.