The Benefit Auction of Early Provincetown Art

PAAM is pleased to announce the return of our in person Benefit Auction of Early Provincetown Art, taking place Saturday, May 16, 2026.

This special evening celebrates the artists who helped transform Provincetown from a small fishing village into one of the most influential centers of American art. The auction brings together remarkable works by historic Provincetown and Outer Cape artists and offers collectors an opportunity to acquire exceptional pieces while supporting PAAM’s mission.

Proceeds from the auction help sustain PAAM’s exhibitions, educational programs, and stewardship of Provincetown’s artistic legacy. The Benefit Auction is one of PAAM’s most important annual fundraisers. By participating in the auction—whether as a bidder, consignor, or supporter—you help preserve and sustain the cultural vitality of our Provincetown art community.

EVENT SCHEDULE

Saturday, May 16, 2026 at PAAM

4:00 pm: Cocktail Preview Reception catered by Salty Market and Bidder Registration
5:30 pm: Live Auction

Attire: Creative and Elegant. The auction will take place in person at PAAM and online, allowing collectors to participate from anywhere.

AUCTION PREVIEW

All works included in the auction will be on view at PAAM from May 1 through May 16, 2026, giving collectors and visitors the opportunity to experience the artwork in person prior to the sale.

An online catalog will also be available with full lot information, images, and condition reports.

BIDDING OPTIONS

Bidding will be available through multiple formats:

  • In-person bidding at PAAM
  • Online bidding
  • Telephone bidding
  • Absentee bidding

Online bidding will be available through:

In-person bidder registration begins during the cocktail reception at 4:00 pm and will remain open during the auction for bidders arriving later in the evening.

To arrange telephone or absentee bidding, please register online at eldreds.com or call 508-385-3116.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS

PAAM is proud to present this auction in collaboration with Eldred’s, a nationally recognized and Cape Cod-based auction house specializing in fine art and antiques. Their expertise helps ensure a professional, competitive sale while expanding access for collectors participating both in person and online. This event has been made possible by the generous sponsorship and extraordinary support of Eldred’s.

PAAM is grateful for the support of our catering partner, Salty Market Farmstand in North Truro.

TERMS AND PAYMENT

A buyer’s premium will be added to the hammer price of all purchases:

  • 27% of the final bid price up to and including $500,000
  • 10% of the final bid price over $500,000

After any transaction fees, the full buyer’s premium from this auction benefits PAAM.

Accepted forms of payment include checks, cash, money orders, wire transfers, and major credit cards. Credit cards may be used for up to $5,000 of the invoice total and must have a U.S. billing address.

Unless a valid resale certificate is provided at registration, buyers will be required to pay 6.25% Massachusetts sales tax or other applicable tax.

All property is sold as is. Dimensions are approximate. Bidders are encouraged to review the online catalog prior to bidding and can request condition reports by emailing auction@paam.org.

Additional information—including signatures, framed dimensions, and provenance—will be available in the online catalog.

Prompt removal of purchased items from PAAM is required.

Limited shipping assistance may be available, and PAAM staff can help coordinate shipping through recommended carriers if needed.

Any questions? Please contact auction@paam.org