A record amount was raised at the 20th Margaret River Art Auction on Saturday night, with a sell-out crowd filling the HEART for one of the region’s most popular events.
Hosted by the Margaret River Independent School (MRIS), the auction featured 81 original artworks by 70 artists, raising vital funds for the school while celebrating the region’s creativity and community spirit. More than 350 guests attended the milestone event.
The $5000 Margaret River Art Prize was awarded to Delfina Monteverde for Shine Bright. Other award recipients included Chloe Wilder, Tracey Bower, Tara Edwards, Soleil Heimlich, and Jaes Bidwell, who received the inaugural Heusso Prize.
The Heusso holds special significance for the MRIS art community, created in honour of founding parent, artist, and auction pioneer Mark Heussenstamm, whose vision and creativity helped establish the event 20 years ago.
Event Coordinator Rachuel Knapinski said the night was a powerful reflection of what makes Margaret River unique.
“This night isn’t just about raising funds for our school — it’s a gathering of community, artists, sponsors, and parents,” she said. “The energy in the room is so full of heart. It’s inspiring to see year after year.”
MRIS Chairperson George Firth extended his thanks to everyone who made the milestone celebration possible.
“We’re so fortunate to have such an incredible network of artists, sponsors, and parents who bring this event to life,” he said. “Their generosity, time, and creativity are what make the Margaret River Art Auction so special.”
