A local organization is putting a spotlight on local talent to raise funds for their work.

Lighthouse Mission had a banquet scheduled at the beginning of the pandemic but because of concerns over the health and safety of attendees, they decided to not host the event.

Each year Lighthouse Mission hosts a banquet to raise money for their work with Winnipeg's homeless population. At the banquet, live artists, typically from high schools, would create art at the event and the pieces are auctioned off at the end of the evening.

Instead of waiting for another banquet, the art auction moved online, allowing Lighthouse Mission to accept a large amount of art.

"We came up with this online art auction because we had these artists already lined up to come and create art in support of Lighthouse Mission at our banquet," Ajtay says. "The feedback I got was fabulous!"

To showcase the art and raise funds, Lighthouse Mission is hosting an online auction and is asking for local artists of any talent range and of any medium to submit their work. This change opens the showcase up to all artists in the community.

Ajtay is "hoping that the community is behind them" and wants to see what people create. She is excited to see local artists contribute to their fundraiser and says she is looking forward to seeing the beautiful pieces come through their doors.

Lighthouse Mission is hoping to see works of art from a wide range of artists. Ajtay is working with artists to assure each art piece is safely transported to Lighthouse Mission. The increase in accessibility to receive art means they will be receiving more art than usual.

Those wanting to donate art to the auction are encouraged to visit their website.

Lighthouse Mission is taking art pieces until May 15 and will begin their auction on May 18.