Bad Art, Good Folk
Preble Arts' Annual Fundraising Gala & Auction
What in the World is Bad Art, Good Folk?
Bad Art, Good Folk is our unique and lighthearted fundraiser where local leaders team up with local artists to create one-of-a-kind artwork! These creations are auctioned off in a fun-filled gala where the focus is on community, creativity, and supporting accessible arts programs.
The public can vote for their favorite "Good Folk" and help crown the crowd favorite. It's not about making perfect art - it's about making a real impact, one colorful brushstroke at a time.
2025 Recap
Held on November 8, 2025, the 2025 Bad Art, Good Folk Gala & Auction brought together community members, local leaders, and supporters for an unforgettable night of creativity, entertainment, and generosity. Guests enjoyed a variety of live performances, including a magician, a sword dancer, a hula dancer, a flow artist, and a stunning live painter.
$55,478
Total Raised
11
Cast Members
120
Attendees
16
Items Auctioned
Chris Wair, 2025 Winner
Chris Wair, a member of the Preble County Art Association's Board of Directors and an employee of Reitando Design Group, won the 2025 competition.
Become a 2026 Cast Member
How It Works
- Apply or nominate someone to be a 2026 cast member.
- We will review applications and make selections.
- Selected cast members will be placed on teams with a team leader.
- You'll have time to rally for votes, host mini-events, and create your piece.
- Your artwork will be auctioned at the 2026 gala.
Who Can Apply?
- Local professionals
- Community leaders
- Business owners
- First responders
- Anyone who wants to support Preble Arts in a memorable and creative way (no art experience required!)
Why Join the Cast?
- Be part of a beloved Preble County tradition.
- Learn to create a beautiful art piece.
- Get your name and artwork featured at the gala.
- Support youth programs, community outreach, and mental wellness through art.
- Have an unforgettable creative experience!
Apply
Fill in the form below to apply for the 2026 cast.
Contact Us
Nominate
Fill in the form below to nominate someone for the 2026 cast.
Contact Us
Our help in numbers
7,000+
Community members directly served each year
51
Local artists supported through teaching, exhibits, and our artist sales gallery each year
Countless
Smiles, breakthroughs, and lives touched by the arts
Change a Life
With as little as $5/month, you can help someone discover the healing power of art. Your donation supports free programs for youth, creative outlets for teens, accessible classes for adults, and meaningful opportunities for local artists. Every dollar fuels inspiration, connection, and change.
Support a program
When you support a program, you support dozens of individuals who rely on creative outlets for growth and a higher quality of life. Your donation helps us keep our programs low-cost, provide art supplies, and ensure a safe, inspiring space for everyone who walks through our doors.
