Mount A commerce class partners with fine arts students to create business

Mount Allison University's commerce students in professor Nauman Farooqi's entrepreneurship & new venture class have partnered with fine arts students and university advancement to create a viable, entirely social entrepreneurial venture.

The business, titled The Allisonian Art Garden Ltd, revolves entirely around the objective of bringing higher profits and awareness to Mount A's fine arts students through the creation of two gala/auction events - serving also as an alumni event for surrounding Mount Allison graduates.

"We're proud of the fact that our company defines a need and creates a practical solution," says Nick Spicer, president of The Allisonian Art Garden Ltd.

"Arts and commerce at the surface appear as two entirely opposite fields but it's through examples such as what we've done that show how easily integrated thinking and partnerships in all areas of study can benefit, if there is the right business idea."

The gala and auctions, which have invited over 1,300 university alumni and business leaders around the province, will showcase a number of pieces ranging from photography and painting to some less conventional pieces.

"The quality and selection of art is remarkable," says company vice-president of operations Sarah Short. "Given the pieces we've received, there is little doubt there will be huge support for our artists."

Prices will be set above the typical $10 to $20 regularly fetched by Mount A artists' works to a higher and more deserving premium that better reflects the quality of the pieces, in the range of $200 to $2,000.

Farooqi, who has been teaching the entrepreneurship & new venture class for the last seven years, is happy to see students model a social entrepreneurship business idea.

"I am delighted that this group has decided to take away from regular entrepreneurial ventures and decided to do something in the social entrepreneurship realm," says Farooqi.

"This venture has not only provided students with a unique learning opportunity but also served as a bridge between the students in the commerce and fine arts programs - a formal partnership which has been formed for the first time on-campus".

The first Allisonian Art Garden Gala & Auction event will take place at the Ramada Hotel ballroom at Crystal Palace on Paul Street in Dieppe on Nov. 25 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. with admission set at $25 per person, with complimentary hors d'oeuvres, desserts and a cash bar.

The second Gala & Auction will take place on Friday, Nov. 27 in the foyer of Convocation Hall in Sackville from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will be open to all students, faculty, administration and community members. Admission will be $15 for adults and $5 for students, with complimentary apple cider, coffee, tea and desserts.

All are welcome to register for either event online now at www.mta.ca/artgarden or by calling the Mount Allison University alumni office at 364-2302. Cheques, cash and credit cards will be accepted as payment for the art works.