MoNA XLV: Sapphire Dream — Art Auction

On behalf of the MoNA staff, Trustees and community of artists, welcome to the 2026 MoNA Art Auction, Sapphire Dream, celebrating MoNA’s 45th anniversary: 45 passionate years as a catalyst for creativity, education and civic dialogue, bridging past, present, and future through the celebration of Northwest art.

MoNA XLV: Sapphire Dream is an evening of enchantment and delight, visionary art, and stalwart support for our gem of an institution. Because of your generosity, the museum is able to make the experience of art accessible and free for all—so come ready to shine, bid, and celebrate MoNA’s 45th birthday!

Prelude Party + Artist Awards

Prelude Party & Silent Auction Opens — Friday, May 15 from 5–7pm

The Museum of Northwest Art will gather artists, collectors, and leading supporters for our exciting new Prelude Party—a festive evening celebrating the extraordinary regional artists whose work makes the auction possible. Guests will enjoy an exclusive preview of hundreds of artworks featured in the auction while connecting with the creative community that fuels MoNA’s mission to champion Northwest art. The Silent Auction will open for bidding at 5pm.

The Prelude Party will also debut three new awards recognizing outstanding work in the auction:

The Visionary Award ($1,000) will be selected by popular vote from artists and major Museum supporters attending the evening.
The Juror’s Award ($500) will be chosen by Jessica Wilks, Director Curatorial at the Tacoma Art Museum.
The MoNA Curator’s Award ($500) will be selected by Christian Waguespack, MoNA’s Director of Curatorial Affairs and Curator of Northwest Art.

The Visionary and Curator’s Awards will honor works demonstrating the artistic excellence of the Pacific Northwest.

Art Auction Silent + Live Dates

Silent Auction — Saturday, May 15 through Sunday, May 31

Come to MoNA and explore 200+ artworks and art experiences featured in the Silent and Live sections of the MoNA Art Auction.
The Silent Auction opens for online bidding at 5pm on Saturday, May 15—bid anytime, anywhere to bring home your favorite work of art.

Attend the Prelude Party on May 15 to gain an exclusive first look at items in the auction and be one of the first to bid on your favorite artworks in the Silent Auction! View the complete catalog in-person or online and have your bids in by 5:00pm on Sunday, May 31!

MoNA XLV: Sapphire Dream Live Event — Saturday, May 30

4:00pm: MoNA Doors Open. Explore 200+ artworks while enjoying a selection of fresh oysters, delectable locally-sourced appetizers, drinks, and live music. Get checked in for the Live Event and get the 45th anniversary celebrations started!

5:15pm: New this year! We will leave MoNA and parade down the street to Maple Hall, accompanied by live music and cheers. The MoNA XLV: Sapphire Dream live auction will take place in the beautiful setting of Maple Hall, located in the heart of historic downtown La Conner.

*Transportation will be available by request to help accommodate all guests.

6:00pm: Three-Course Seated Dinner and Live Auction with auctioneer extraordinaire Ian Lindsay. Celebrate MoNA by bidding on the live auction items and raising your paddle in support of the Museum’s mission. Bidding will be in person or by proxy only.

Stay in the Action with Proxy Bidding!

Can’t attend MoNA’s auction in person? No paddle, No problem! Set your max bid in advance by filling our our proxy bidding form and our team will bid on your behalf during the live auction, giving you a chance to claim your favorite piece without being in the room.

Golden Ticket — A Brilliant Opportunity

The Golden Ticket returns to offer a chance to take home an original artwork valued up to $7,500—at just $100 per entry. Tickets go on sale May 16 in the Museum Store and are non-transferable. You can purchase as many as you like to boost your chances to win. One lucky winner on May 30 will select any available Live Auction piece—an unforgettable prize at an unbeatable price. The drawing takes place during MoNA’s in-person Live Auction on Saturday, May 30. You do not need to be present to win.

Preview all artworks May 15–May 29 at MoNA or online. (Online catalog coming soon!)

Silent Auction Highlight

MoNA’s Silent Auction provides a unique selection of artworks from established and emerging Pacific Northwest artists. Whether online or in person, explore over 200 original works of art and experiences, all available to bid on anytime, anywhere. With bidding open online 24/7, you can browse and place your bids with purpose when inspiration strikes! From paintings and sculpture to memorable experiences, the MoNA Silent Auction is a collector’s playground with something for every home and every wallet. Browse online or come to the museum (recommended!) to learn more about the works and the artists, then place your bids with just a click. Every bid supports artists and helps keep MoNA admission-free year-round for all. Online catalog coming soon!

Stay Nearby During Sapphire Dream!

Silver Sponsor La Conner Inn and La Conner Channel Lodge are offering 10% off room bookings for Sapphire Dream auction guests on May 29-31, 2026.

Book your reservation online (or call) and use the code SAPPHIRE DREAM during booking to receive your discount.

La Conner Inn - (360) 466-3101
Discount Code: Sapphire Dream | Book Online

La Conner Channel Lodge - (360) 466-1500
Discount Code: Sapphire Dream | Book Online