Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition is rallying community support this month as it continues to search for a new home in the wake of the massive September fire that tore through 481 Van Brunt St. in Red Hook.
For 35 years, the BWAC anchored its two-floor gallery at the water’s edge of the building, a section that suffered comparatively less damage. But by mid-Nov., the group learned the structure needs far more reconstruction than first believed, forcing all former tenants, including BWAC, to move on.
"It's been a surreal experience for all of us," said BWAC president Alicia Degener.
Despite the uncertainty, BWAC leaders say the outpouring of support across the city has been steady as they work to rebuild the organization’s future. To keep momentum going, the coalition is turning to community fundraising while creating space for neighbors and supporters to gather during the holiday season.
BWAC’s Holiday Bash, a live fundraiser, will take place Sunday, Dec. 14, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at The Cidery at The Red Hook Distillery. The afternoon will feature live music, a live art auction, light bites, a raffle with prizes from local businesses and a cash bar.
More than 30 artists will be represented in the live auction, including BWAC members, community supporters, and works from the estate of longtime Red Hook resident and former BWAC president John Strohbeen, who passed away in 2023. In true BWAC fashion, the auction lineup spans multiple disciplines, painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, drawing, prints and more, with many starting bids beginning at $65.
A second auction will roll out online starting Tuesday, Dec. 16 open to the public through bwac.org.
Tickets to the Holiday Bash are $35 on Eventbrite, with additional ticket links available through the BWAC website. Tickets will also be sold at the door. The event will be held at 175 Van Dyke St. in Red Hook.
