For Attendees + Artwork Bidders
Where is Bemis Center located?
Bemis Center is located at 724 South 12th Street between Leavenworth and Jones Street, in the heart of the Old Market. Please enter the event through gates on 12th Street just south of Jones Street and head to the main building entrance.
Is there parking available?
During the event, 12th Street outside of Bemis Center will be closed to traffic to accommodate the festivities. Consider leaving your wheels at home and taking a rideshare or taxi for the easiest experience!
Valet: Ticket holders have access to complimentary valet parking from 5:15 to 11 PM; drop-off is heading eastward on Jones Street between 12th and 11th Street. Valet spaces are limited and first come, first served.
Public Parking: Park Omaha offers several nearby options, including the 10th & Jackson Garage. Please note that parking is no longer available in the lot directly to the north of Bemis Center due to the construction of a public park.
What is the check-in process like?
There are six check-in stations just inside the main entrance. Please head to the shortest line.
Every guest must check in individually to receive a wristband-this includes spouses, partners, and anyone in your party. We'll simply confirm your last name, add a phone number if needed, and place a credit card on file for bidding.
Once you get your wristband from a Bemis staff member, you're all set to bid and enjoy the night!
How will bidding take place?
Bidding will take place online through the GiveSmart virtual bidding platform, on Friday, October 24, 5:30-9:15 PM CT. You may access the site via a desktop or mobile device; you do not need to download an app.
Heider Family Foundation Gallery 1 - Bidding closes at 7:45 PM CT
Millwork Commons Gallery 2 - Bidding closes at 8:15 PM CT
Kelsey + Tony Noecker Gallery 3 - Bidding closes at 8:45 PM CT
Omaha Steaks Gallery 4 - Bidding closes at 9:15 PM CT
NOTE: Once bidding begins, Buy It Now is no longer available. Bidders will be able to set up a "Max Bid" if desired and artwork will sell to the highest bidder. Bidding in each gallery will conclude according to cellular network time synchronization. Though our countdown clocks and gallery closing performances are programmed to align as best as possible, please rely on your cell phone's clock when placing bids.
What is the starting bid on the online auction items?
The starting bid for artwork featured in the online auction is 70% of the retail price provided by the artist (including framing, if applicable).
Are there opportunities to see the works in person before the event?
Yes. In addition to special events such as the Opening Reception and Open House / Open Studios, galleries are free and open to the public from October 11 to October 24. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday 11 AM to 5 PM, and until 9 PM on Thursday. Note that galleries will be closed on October 24 from 4 to 5:30 PM while we prepare to open the Benefit Art Auction.
Are there opportunities to purchase works before the event?
YES! Auction items may be purchased at the Buy It Now price, calculated as 150% of retail (including framing, if applicable), beginning October 1 and at any time before bidding commences on October 24.
NOTE: Once bidding begins, Buy It Now is no longer available. Bidders will be able to set up a "Max Bid" if desired and artwork will sell to the highest bidder.
Please contact the Development Team at development@bemiscenter.org or 402.341.7130 for more information.
Are tickets required to bid in the auction?
No, tickets are not required to bid in the auction. We welcome bids from those in attendance and from remote bidders.
However, tickets are required to attend the Benefit event at Bemis Center on Friday, October 24.
There are multiple ways to support the artists and Bemis: by purchasing a ticket for the event on October 24, becoming a member or sponsor to receive Benefit-related perks, donating, and purchasing or bidding on Auction artwork!
Is my artwork purchase tax deductible?
Yes, but only the amount paid above the fair market value of the artwork noted on your receipt can be considered a charitable donation, so bid up those artworks. It's for a worthy cause after all!
How or when will I be able to collect or receive my artwork purchase?
For those with winning bids on auction artwork:
PICKUP DURING BUSINESS HOURS: Artwork may be picked up at Bemis Center beginning Wednesday, October 29 at no additional charge. Pick-up is available Monday-Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, or by advance appointment by contacting development@bemiscenter.org.
EVENING PICKUP ON SPECIAL DATES: Bemis Center will host two casual gatherings with light hors d'oeuvres and complimentary beverages, offered as a special thanks to art buyers and to toast your support of Bemis's programs as you pick up your purchases. Join us at Bemis for one of these "Bubbles + Bubble Wrap" events:
Thursday, October 30, 5-7 PM
Thursday, November 13, 5-7 PM
DELIVERY: Should you need assistance with the delivery and/or installation of your artwork, and you live in the Omaha/Lincoln region, you may arrange for delivery and installation services at an additional fee. Arrangement and payments are made directly with vendors:
Name: Matt Bauer
Phone: 402.505.0649
Email: mattbauer@gmail.com
Delivery and Installation Fee: Minimum $100 for the first hour and $75 for each additional hour. Rates subject to vary based upon location of delivery and installation. Call for a quote.
Name: Joey Lynch
Phone: 402.601.3454
Email: mrjoeylynch@gmail.com
Delivery and Installation Fee: Minimum $100 for the first hour and $75 for each additional hour. Rates subject to vary based upon location of delivery and installation. Call for a quote.
SHIPPING: The cost of shipping work will be billed separately. Bemis Center will connect buyers with Craters & Freighters. The cost of shipping work will be billed separately by the vendor.
Can I collect my artwork purchase at the Benefit Art Auction?
No. To ensure safe handling of the artwork, we are not able to offer pickup the night of the event. Please plan to collect artwork via one of the options listed above.
About the Benefit Art Auction
What is the Benefit Art Auction?
Bemis Center's Benefit Art Auction is Omaha's premier celebration of contemporary art. Attracting more than 1,500 of the region's established business leaders, emerging professionals, artists, and other movers and shakers, this exhibition and event provide a unique platform for artists and raise critical funds to ensure Bemis's free, year-round exhibitions, educational public programs, LOW END performances, and international residency program.
More than 300 works are selected for the Benefit Art Auction Exhibition, which is on view to the public from October 10-24 with free admission. Artwork is available to purchase at Buy it Now prices from October 1-23 (online and in-person). The Auction begins at 5:30 PM CT on October 24, with mobile bidding available, allowing patrons to place bids and purchase work from anywhere in the world!
What does the Benefit Art Auction support?
Proceeds from the Benefit Art Auction support participating artists and are invested in Bemis Center programs including exhibitions, LOW END performances, public education programs, and engagement with our international residency program. Participating artists receive up to 50% commission on the sale of their work and inclusion in the Benefit Art Auction Exhibition.
You can support the artists and Bemis by purchasing a ticket for the event on October 24, becoming a member or sponsor to receive Benefit-related perks, donating, and purchasing or bidding on Auction artwork!
For Artists
What benefits come with contributing to the Benefit Art Auction?
If your artwork is selected for this year's Benefit, as a thank you for your generosity, your donation entitles you to:
- The choice to donate between 100% and 50% of the proceeds of the sale of your work to Bemis Center. The remaining sales percentage is yours to keep!
- Two complimentary tickets to the 2025 Benefit Art Auction on October 24
- One-year Bemis Center Membership at the $500 Core level
- Free shipping for your donated artwork
- Free framing for your donated artwork for the Benefit Art Auction Exhibition (if applicable)
- Bemis Alumni Status
Does Bemis Center need my W-9 tax form on file?
A W-9 is optional upon artwork submission, but required for payment. If you have selected to receive a commission, Bemis Center will request a tax form.
Why do I need to enter a retail price?
Bemis Center will use your suggested retail price to determine the minimum bid price which is calculated at 70% of your suggested retail price. This information is also used to determine the Buy It Now price, which is 150% of the retail price. If we frame your work, the cost of framing will be added to the retail price.
What is the minimum price for which my work may be sold?
By selecting your donation percentage on our submission form, you agree to the following: Artist/Bemis Center commission split is based on final sale price. Artwork is not sold below 70% of retail.
How do I know what donation percentage to select?
You determine the donation percentage you would like to offer from the options listed. The percentages range from a 100% donation to Bemis to a 50%/50% split of the sale price.
What happens to unsold artwork after the Benefit Art Auction?
If your selected artwork is unsold, we will contact you regarding pickup or return shipping. Artwork must be picked up or returned by Friday, December 5, 2025.
Who can be contacted for additional questions about the Benefit Art Auction and artwork submissions?
If you have technical or administrative questions, contact benefitartauction@bemiscenter.org. If you have other questions about this year's event, contact the Development Team at development@bemiscenter.org or 402.341.7130.