The Great Art Heist: Art Auction

Friday, October 2–Friday, October 23, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, October 2 at 6 p.m.
Final Bids: Friday, October 23 by 7 p.m.
Location: Dare Arts Gallery, 300 Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Manteo
Admission to Opening Reception: Free

The Great Art Heist returns to Dare Arts in October with a collection of one-of-a-kind artwork from local and regional artists, all supporting Dare Arts and its programs in the Outer Banks community.

The benefit silent art auction officially opens Friday, October 2 at 6 p.m. with a free reception at the Dare Arts Gallery in downtown Manteo. The evening will feature libations, hors d’oeuvres and live piano music by Fleck and will be held in conjunction with Manteo’s First Friday festivities.

Guests can browse the artwork, discover pieces created by local and regional artists and place bids either in person at the Dare Arts Gallery or online through the Dare Arts website.

OPENING NIGHT: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2

6 p.m.

• The Great Art Heist officially opens
• Silent auction bidding begins
• Opening reception at Dare Arts
• Hors d’oeuvres and libations
• Live piano music by Fleck
• Manteo First Friday festivities happening throughout downtown

The opening reception is free and open to everyone.

AUCTION SCHEDULE

October 2–23

• Silent auction bidding remains open
• View and bid on artwork in person at the Dare Arts Gallery
• Online bidding is also available through Dare Arts

Friday, October 23 at 7 p.m.

• Final bids are due
• The Great Art Heist auction closes

DARE ARTS GALLERY HOURS

Tuesday–Friday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Sunday & Monday: Closed

The Great Art Heist is Dare Arts’ annual benefit art auction and its signature fundraising event, helping support the nonprofit organization’s work to encourage and expand arts opportunities throughout Dare County.

Location: Dare Arts Gallery, 300 Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Manteo, NC 27954