Art sale to raise funds for Harmony House

Date: 9/25/2014

HOLYOKE – Ruth Willemain has donated her exquisite African art collection to raise funds for Harmony House of Western Massachusetts, a project she hopes comes to fruition within the next year.

“We haven’t found a location yet but I’m still hopeful,” she said during a recent interview with Reminder Publications.
   
For the past several years, Willemain and her army of volunteers have been on a mission to raise funds so Harmony House will ensure that “no one in Western Massachusetts dies alone.”
   
“Harmony House will have a unique approach for compassionate care of the terminally ill,” she said.
   
Her collection spans from the 1950’s to 1970’s and includes art she purchased while traveling across Africa, as well as from friends who had sent her gifts from Guyana, Tanzania, Kenya and Morocco.
   
Willemain has entrusted Steve Del Acqua of Manhattan Restorations in Easthampton to showcase the more than 300 pieces in a special show slated for Oct. 19 from 2 to 8 p.m. at his studio, 150 Pleasant St., suite 347.
   
“I will be inviting clients who I know appreciate African art,” Del Acqua said.
   
The general public is also welcome to view the collection during the special show.
   
During a visit to his studio, Del Acqua was putting the finishing touches on the displays which includes one giant table filled with ornate carvings ranging from sculptures, masks, canes and jewelry, to handbags, luggage, musical instruments, games and dolls.
   
Expressive artwork, including original works made from butterflies and hair from animals, are among the many offerings.
   
“There are several unique pieces to this collection,” he said, referencing an ostrich egg draped in beading, snakeskin purses, a turtle shell mandolin, and intricately carved busts.
   
Del Acqua noted that prices will range from a hand carved solid ebony letter opener for $5 to rugs ranging from $600 to $1,000.
   
“This show is a celebration of Ruth Willemain’s collection over a span of 25 years,” Del Acqua stated. “All donations are tax-deductible and buyers will also receive a beautiful piece of artwork.”
   
Interested attendees should  call 529-1199 and leave their name and telephone number.
   
For more information on Harmony House, a 501(c)3 corporation, visit www.facebook.com/pages/Harmony-House-of-Western-Massachusetts.
   
“Ruth is wonderful and I am happy to help her with this show,” Del Acqua said, noting that he will also donate 25 percent of sales of his antiques and collectibles that day to Harmony House.
   
“The more you give to others, the more you realize it comes back to you,” he said.