Chair-i-table auction slated for May 8 at Java.net

The railroad rocker is ready for a young train lover.

Cuba, Missouri’s annual Chair-i-table auction

We’re saving you the best seat in the house…

In 2003, Viva Cuba, the non-profit beautification organization in Cuba, MO, was looking for a spring fundraiser that was in keeping with their organization’s role of beautifying Cuba with outdoor murals, plantings, and other projects to improve their small town of 3500.

Chairperson of the group Jill Barnett suggested having local artists design and decorate chairs that would be auctioned in a silent auction. The first auction in 2003 was held the weekend before Mother’s Day at the local Wal-Mart and was a great success. Now it is a tradition that the auction is held the Saturday before Mother’s Day.

Each year artists have created chair and furniture paintings in a variety of styles from a Route 66 themed vintage glider to needlepoint antiques. This year Missouri Route 66 artist Ray Harvey, who painted two of the organization’s murals, will contribute a metal chair with a custom design. Viva Cuba never knows what twists of the imagination that the artists will use on their chosen furniture.

The furniture display and auction are free and open to the public.

Proceeds from the auction are used for mural lighting, maintenance, and other beautification projects.

This year’s auction is at Java.net Books & Gifts Coffeehouse (418 N. Franklin) on Saturday, May 8 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The live auction is at 12:00. The silent auction ends at 1:00 pm. Viva Cuba’s contacts for the auction are Judy Koski 573-885-2511 and Judy Workman 573-885-2775.

In April, Viva Cuba will post descriptions and photos of the chairs and other furniture on the blog. Mark Saturday, May 8 on your calendars; we’re saving a seat for you.