Alzheimer’s Association Art Auction Draws Broncos and New Supporters

When emcee Kim Christiansen asked how many of the 800 attendees at this year’s Memories in the Making Art Auction were new to the event, at least half raised their hand. Admittedly, there was a curiosity factor that helped sell tickets—this was the first event ever held at the Denver Broncos’ brand-new fieldhouse, and former and current players and coaches were there. Pat Bowlen’s daughter Beth Bowlen Wallace was event chair. But even those who may have come for the Broncos factor inevitably were drawn into reason for the event: the incredible talent of the Alzheimer’s-afflicted artists and their poignant stories.

(l to r): Erin and Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler, with event chair Beth Bowlen Wallace and John Wallace

The evening began with a cocktail reception and extensive silent auction of the displayed artwork of 100 artists from the Memories in the Making program—individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Some paintings were paired with the work of a professional artist. The auction also included a collection of palettes creatively painted by the pros, and there was a small selection of reproductions of displayed artwork—those who missed out on a silent-auction favorite could own a replica for a $50 donation. Epicurean Catering servers circulated with passed hors d’oeuvres, and there were a number of buffet stations lining the vast dining area, along with fully stocked bars.

Palettes creatively embellished by professional artists were up for bid.

Event chair Bowlen Wallace spoke to the crowd about her father and Broncos owner Pat Bowlen, asking the crowd to remember his accomplishments rather than his battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Then auctioneers Chuck and Bryson Miller entertained the crowd and enticed high bids during the live auction of artwork. Among the pieces up for bid was a Pat Bowlen tribute to his Broncos success story, created by iconic Denver sports cartoonist Drew Litton—amazingly, the cartoon was published the day before the public announcement regarding Bowlen’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The signed artwork, which became the signature piece of the event, was purchased by Bowlen Wallace for $7,000, while Litton looked on in the audience. At auction’s end, dessert for this crowd was nothing short of spectacular: a 5×5-foot opera cake donated by Bar Red.

Memories in the Making (MIM) is a creative art expression program for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Some people with dementia have lost the ability to use words, and through painting are often able to express thoughts and emotions, and to share beloved memories. The MIM experience offers an opportunity for the essence of who they are and what they care about to shine through. All of the proceeds from the auction help fund programs and services at the Alzheimer’s Assocation of Colorado. For more information, please visit: alz.org/co .