Page 9 - 2020 Russell Catalogue

Welcome, Friends!
Dear Friends,
Two questions our staff members hear fairly often is, “How much money did the auction make this year?” and “How many pieces did you sell?”
These are natural questions. People are excited and intrigued by the financial performance of The Russell and the impact it has on the museum. We always appreciate the curiosity and the friendly encouragement that accompanies this type of dialogue. Also, we’re always excited to report our growing success with the auction and the benefit it provides the museum’s mission.
Yet, to simply answer the question with sales data seems incomplete if we didn’t also emphasize what drives this event every year— for staff, board, volunteers,
and patrons alike. It’s the Western soul that’s palpable throughout our events and inspires each of us. Sure, a portion of the art sales provide tremendous support to our financial bottom line—40% of our overall annual revenue—but the motivating spirit is broader than dollars and cents. The Russell is more than a transaction of art sales or an economic proposition.
The Russell is the bartering of good ideas and the exchange of even better stories. It’s the dividend of a deep laugh and the currency of our shared values. That’s what makes The Russell special. It’s the combination of great art with better friends who remind us of why the West compels us so deeply and why we’re moved by her vast beauty and her eternal spirit.
For those of you who’ve attended The Russell, no explanation is necessary. You understand the real spirit that makes the event unique. Conversely, for those of you who are attending for the first time, no explanation will suffice. You’ll need to discover for yourself why The Russell is more than just a “can’t be missed event.” The Russell is a revival of the Western spirit that fuels our work and inspires our audiences.
We look forward to enjoying your company. Sincerely,
Executive Director Tom Figarelle and the Staff of the C.M. Russell Museum