Patrons Show 2025!

What is the Patrons' Show Fundraiser?

The Art League's Patrons' Show Fundraiser is an experience that's part fundraiser, part block party, and totally fun. It's The Art League's biggest fundraising event of the year, providing both seasoned art collectors and newcomers with the excellent opportunity to acquire high-quality, original fine art at a bargain price while supporting a great non-profit organization and community of artists. For each ticket drawn, ticketholders go home with a work of art valued anywhere from $250 to upwards of thousands of dollars.

The live event will be held in person and broadcast online, so ticketholders may choose to attend in person or virtually!

All proceeds benefit The Art League's educational programs, exhibits, community outreach programs, and Classroom Relocation Project.

See the work online:

View the artwork collection online via Flickr.com HERE! Images of new artworks are added weekly.

How Does it Work?

This annual event features 600+ works of original fine art donated by Art League and Torpedo Factory artists, and the number of tickets sold matches the number of works donated. The Show opens for in-person viewing in The Art League Gallery approximately two weeks before the drawing. Ticketholders fill the Gallery during these weeks, studying the artwork and noting their favorite pieces so they'll be prepared to select from the available artwork when their turn arrives.

The live event will be held in person and broadcast online, so ticketholders may choose to attend in person or virtually!

Ticketholders may use the two weeks of the exhibit to study the artwork, take note of your favorite pieces, and then prepare and ‘pre-submit’ a list of your top 70 or more choices. Your ticketholder's list will be entered under the ticketholder's name into the 2025 Patrons' Show Drawing, so you'll be prepared when your turn arrives. Don’t worry; you may resubmit and edit your list right up until the drawing starts! See more on this below…

Q. How do I choose my 2:00 p.m.? What does ‘pre-submit' mean?

A. Your artwork choice will automatically be pulled from your last submitted artwork list when your name is entered. The artwork choice paired with the ticketholder’s name will be the ticketholder’s submitted top choice from the remaining artwork on their list. The Show database selects your top artwork from your list when your name is called. The artwork is your top choice from the available artwork, and this artwork will appear on the announcer screen with your name. In-person ticketholders can call out an artwork change if they want—just as long as their new choice is still available!

We strongly encourage everyone to submit their artwork lists as early as possible. However, ticket holders may continue to update and ‘reorder’ their artwork lists online through the ticketholder’s artwork list portal until 2:00 p.m. on the day of the drawing.

On the evening of the Patrons' Show Fundraiser drawing (Saturday, February 15, 2024, starting at 6:00 pm), the excitement is palpable. Tickets are randomly drawn, and when the name of each ticketholder is announced, they may select a work of art from the Show that they wish to add to their collection. *Please note that The Art League does not provide food or beverages for this event.

As always, our intrepid and entertaining MC will announce ticketholder names as we’ve done in the past years. When your ticketholder name is called, your name AND your pre-chosen artwork selection will appear on the event screens and the live stream.

For 2025, the Show opens for online and in-person viewing in The Art League’s gallery three weeks before the drawing. Artwork listings are updated as late donations become available.

Patrons' Show Fundraiser SINGLE Tickets: $245

One seat on the event night in the selected section and one piece of artwork. Tickets are non-refundable.

Patrons' Show Fundraiser COUPLES Tickets: $350

These must be purchased in pairs. For this ticket option, you will receive two seats at the event in the selected section and one piece of artwork. You must purchase an even number of tickets for this couple's option. Tickets are nonrefundable.

EXAMPLE: If three couples (6 people) wish to attend, you need to purchase three (3) tickets + three (3) guest seats, select six (6)...$175 x 6 = $1050, i.e. $350 x 3

BUYING YOUR PATRONS' SHOW TICKETS - FAQ

Q: When do tickets go on sale?

A: Tickets are on sale now.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?

A: RIGHT HERE! On Eventbrite. Tickets are only sold online.

Q: How many tickets and guest seats can I purchase?

A: There is no limit on the number of Patrons' Show Fundraiser tickets you may purchase. The maximum number of guest seats per Patrons' Show Fundraiser ticket purchased is one (1).

Q: Why do I have to buy the "COUPLES Ticket" option in even-numbered quantities?

A: Think of this "ticket quantity" as the number of people in your party attending the event. You will only select this option if you bring a partner/guest; therefore, you will only purchase an "even" number of tickets. If your partner or guest wishes to have their own artwork (rather than share the 'won' artwork with you or just observe the drawing), they need their own "SINGLE" (i.e. artwork) ticket. If the following guidelines do not answer your questions, please email us at [email protected].

Q. How do I pick my seat?

A. We highly recommend using the Event Seat Map (BUY ON MAP) to pick seats. Choosing the tickets on the main page will automatically assign you the 'best seat.' Don't worry; if you do not like your seating choice, you can always un-click the seat on the seating chart and click the seat you prefer. SINGLE Tickets are designated in orange on the seat map; COUPLES Tickets are designated in pink.

Q: Do I need to bring my ID with me?

A: Yes. You will need to have your ID with you to check out your artwork. Everyone in attendance must have their ID. All guests must have their names on the ticket on the night of the event for artwork pick-up. If you need to update a name on your ticket, please get in touch with us at [email protected] with your order number and the updated name.

Q: May I bring my kids and/or babies to the Patrons' Show Fundraiser?

A: Unfortunately, NO. The Patrons' Show is not appropriate for children of any age. The event lasts around four hours and can be loud and crowded.

Q: Why is there a transaction fee?

A: Eventbrite charges a transaction fee for all purchases made through their site. The transaction fee (3.7% + $1.79 per sold ticket) is actually less than the Virginia state tax, which is 6%. By using Eventbrite, our ticketholders can save $1.01 per ticket purchase.

Q: Why does it say that a COUPLES ticket is $175.00? Does this cost less?

A: The amount shown on the ticket selection page ($175) is half of $350 because you are required to purchase multiples of 2 for this option. So, No: The PSF Couples Ticket option is $350 ($245 per ticket + $105 for a guest seat). You are not receiving 2 Patrons' Show tickets, you are receiving one ticket + one guest seat. The guest is not entitled to participate in the drawing for artwork.

Q: What if I want to purchase 3 Patrons' Show Fundraiser Tickets and only two guest seats? What option(s) do I select?

A: If you are purchasing an unequal number of tickets and guest seats, select the quantity of PSF Couple Ticket first and make up the difference with the TICKET ONLY option. Guest seats may not exceed the quantity of Patrons' Show Tickets.

Q: I want a refund. How can I do that?

A: Tickets are non-refundable. If you have a scheduling conflict, note that an in-person ticket can be converted to a virtual ticket, so you can still participate in the event and receive artwork without being present.

Q: I want to change my seat location. How do I do that?

A: Contact us at [email protected] with your order number, current seat locations, and the new seat location you would prefer. There is a $10 fee per seat change, which is due upon transfer. Seat transfers are not guaranteed, but we will try our best to ensure you are in the best location possible.

Q: What's the best way to purchase tickets if I'm part of a large group?

A: If you have a large group, consider having one person purchase all your tickets. This will help ensure contiguous seating for your group. We also recommend classroom areas for large groups.

Q: What if I already have an in-person seat, but I want an extra ticket for the drawing?

A: We recommend purchasing a virtual ticket! Please email us at [email protected] so we can note that you will pick up your 'won' artwork the night of the event, not during the virtual ticket pickup days.

Q: I'm from out-of-town, but this sounds fun—can I participate?

A: Absolutely! We recommend purchasing a virtual ticket and arranging to ship your 'won' artwork through our gallery. When buying a virtual ticket, you can select "shipping" as your pickup method. You can also email us at [email protected] . Note: there will be an extra shipping charge that will be determined by the size/weight of your artwork. The Art League will pass along that cost to you, but we won't charge you an additional fee for making arrangements with the shipper. It is possible to estimate shipping costs online, so it may make sense to do a little research ahead of time so you know what to expect, cost-wise.

Q: How do I get my physical ticket?

A: Once your registration page is complete and you have confirmed your purchase, you will receive a confirmation email detailing your purchase and seating section. A PDF ticket will be attached; you can save it on your phone or tablet. Print your tickets and bring them to the drawing on February 15, or you can show your ticket on your phone or tablet.

Q: When is the actual drawing?

A: The Patrons' Show Fundraiser drawing is on SATURDAY, February 15, at 6:00 pm in the Torpedo Factory Art Center. You must be present to select your artwork.

Q: How long does the drawing take?

A: The 2025 Patrons' Show Fundraiser drawing will start at 6:00 pm with three rounds of "name-calling" planned. If your name is called in the first round, you'll be done around 7:30 pm; if your name is called in the second round, you'll be done around 9:00 pm; if you are called in the last round or choose to stay for the After Auction, you'll be finished around 10:30 pm. You must be present to select your artwork.

Q: Are there refreshments at the event?

A: Due to the nature of the event, The Art League does not serve/sell food and drink to our ticketholders. Ticketholders may bring refreshments but cannot order takeout/delivery to the building.

Q: I hear that "railing seating" is back. What's that about?

A: Yes, we're glad to announce that, after working with the Alexandria Fire Inspector and city staff (thanks, folks), we are able to add a limited amount of railing seating on the Torpedo Factory's second floor again. Please check it out here on the venue map.

Q: I hear that there's an app for the Patrons' Show. What is Art Thief?

[Please note that the app will not begin updating new works until late December]

A. Yes, we have an app for your iPhone or iPad specifically designed for the Patrons' Show called . Art Thief helps you review and manage the hundreds of artworks available. Plus, it makes the event and the planning for it more fun. With Art Thief, you can download and rate this year’s artwork and put it into a list based on your preference. During the show, Art Thief makes it easy to quickly record and track which artworks have been taken so that you know which piece is still available as your top choice! All sorts of bonus features help you share the art on social media and vote for your favorite piece. Download Art Thief here Thanks, Steve!

Here's a video overview of version 6.3 of Art Thief covering the new features and what first timers need to know.

Q. I have my ticket and want to start my artwork favorites list; how do I organize and submit it?

A. If you want to organize your favorites list, we suggest using the app— Art Thief. Art Thief helps you review and manage the hundreds of artworks available and then put it into a list based on your preference to submit for the event drawing. Apple iOS version: Download Art Thief here

[Please note that the app will not begin updating new works until late December]

New this year, thanks to the amazing work of Joseph Rock, there's also an Android version of Art Thief that has essentially all the same features and UI as the iOS version. It's just launched and is available for download on the Play Store now: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joerock.artthief

Important Note: In order to submit your final artwork list for the drawing, you will need a "codename." The "code name" for submitting your list via Art Thief will be sent to you via email in February. Typically, once Patrons' Show tickets are close to SOLD OUT, we generate and send the individual codes in a bulk email to the ticket holders.

If you are not using the Art Thief app, or prefer to organize your list on the website, here is the link to that page. It will be accessible to you when your codename is assigned and sent to you.

Q: I have a virtual ticket; how do I contact someone if there is an issue during the drawing?

A. Call the gallery desk at 703-683-1780.

Q: If I can’t attend the drawing or stay to watch the whole event, how will I know if I was called and what artwork I received?

A. You will receive an email message when your name is called during the drawing. The email will identify the ticketholder and the artwork # that they received.

Q: I have a virtual ticket; how and when do I retrieve my artwork?

A. When you buy your virtual ticket, you'll be given a choice of artwork pickup days and times. You will need to have your ID and ticket with you to check out your artwork. If you need to update your pickup day or need to have your artwork shipped, please contact us at [email protected]. If your artwork weighs more than 40 lbs or is oversized, you will need to come into the gallery and make arrangements for pickup and loading help.

Q: Can I get a tax letter if all my selected artworks are chosen?

A. Yes! You’re welcome to email us at [email protected].

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THANK YOU TO OUR LEAD SPONSOR: SIKICH

A special acknowledgment to Lynch Investments for supporting our Brenda Kollman Artist Award—$4,000 cash prize to our Best-In-Show for 3-D artwork

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Art League, 105 North Union Street, Alexandria, United States