Running a Convention

[Spizzy]

Hey guys, since I'm director for Realmscon's AA, they asked that I also conduct the art auction. Problem is, I don't know how to go about doing that. I mean, I figure it can't be that hard; you hold it up, give a description of the artwork and the technical stuff (medium, size, ect) and who it's by, and then start the bidding. I'm not too worried about it because I heard only a whopping 8 people showed up to last year's auction, but I'd still like some advice from people that actually have some experience with it.

[Hastur]

I have experience with art auctions and with running a couple small auctions, too. And it sounds like you are already set.

Get a description of each item - get details.
When they are bidding, it's kind of cool to add details as the bidding stops.  That way it encourages more bidding. 
Have another person there to take the money.  You can be running the bidding while they are getting the cash. It helps for larger auctions anyway.

You also may want to contact the art director for FenCon (www.fencon.org) to see if s/he has any tips.  They run a really cool auction