Bill Patterson Commissioned LiveArt
A friend basically dared me to do a live painting on the stage during an IndyCar charity auction in 2000. It raised some pretty serious money and a new world of opportunity opened up for me and my clients.
I have done well over 100 LiveArt performance paintings over the years for corporate entertainment, parties and Victory Lane celebrations, but am especially proud to have helped raise well over one million dollars for my clients’ charities. Some of the most recognizable names in the entertainment and racing world have picked up a brush and signed my work in paint right then and there at the event! Others have added a few strokes of paint to the image itself. Both make for a fun showstopper and a memorable and unique finished piece.
LiveArt has a way of becoming a way for many to connect with the event in an unexpected way. At the Spanish GP several years ago I watched as a number of high end corporate clients entered the venue overlooking the track. Most of the men were excited to see the cars and were ready to enjoy the day at the races. But a large number of those at the event seemed less than thrilled to be “stuck” at a race track all day. For those people specially, the LiveArt in progress was a great surprise and a gave them a way to enjoy the event. Many will see the event(s) differently and with a feeling of connection to the sport, the venue and their hosts. Following up the event with a limited edition signed print of the printed image is a great way to remind them of their day.
Although the average auction price is typically around $10,000, a “great night” at a charity event is a sale price of $20,000 or more. And when one or two other bidders in the crowd decide they’ll match that amount (for further commissions to be done by me later), well that’s a really great night! $100,000+ in one evening can feel pretty good!
I supply everything I need to do the painting with the exception of professional lighting (very important!), and a small table for my brushes. I’m flexible as to size and schedule, from 30 minutes to multiple days, although 60 - 90 minutes is usually just right.