Draw of the art keeps collectors coming back to Space 1026 auction

One of Philadelphia’s oldest artist collective, Space 1026, has been using a building in Chinatown for studios and printing facilities for 14 years. Its only fundraising event is an annual auction of work by member artists and their famous friends. 

The scrappy collective known for outlandish parties and eccentric exhibitions brings that style to its auction. The event, which took place Dec.12, attracts impoverished artists and wealthy collectors. 

Volunteer auctioneer Todd Kimmel takes bids at the annual Space 1026 art auction. (Peter Crimmins/WHYY)

The auctioneer is Todd Kimmel, a self-described “jackanapes” who volunteers his time behind the microphone for several charity auctions in the region, vowing to keep the room lively so long as the host charity treats him well. His work paid off last week, as Space 1026 brought in nearly twice the amount it normally does.

Radio producer Peter Crimmins created this audio postcard of the event.