Root Division’s 25th Annual Benefit Auction Brings Bay Area Art Into Focus

Event: Root Division’s 25th Annual Benefit Art Auction
Date: October 22, 2026
Location: Root Division, 1131 Mission Street, San Francisco
Photo credit: Jessica Monroy for Drew Altizer Photography

Bay Area artists and the people who champion their work came together at Root Division on October 22 for its 25th Annual Benefit Art Auction. More than 150 works filled the exhibition, giving guests a broad view of the region’s emerging and established artists while raising support for the nonprofit’s programs.

Bonhams auctioneer Aaron Bastian led the live auction. Auction co-chairs Shannon Atlas and Lisa Olson joined featured artist Liz Hernández and artist honorees Kristiana Chan and Wanxin Zhang for the gathering, which brought artists, collectors and gallerists together around the organization’s work.

The evening’s purpose extended beyond the artwork changing hands. Proceeds supported affordable studios, professional development for emerging artists and free arts education for Bay Area youth. Food from Montesacro SoMa accompanied the event as supporters invested in the Bay Area’s creative community.

Guests also included gallerists Cecilia Chia< Paul Henderson and Patricia Sweetow, along with art collectors Drusie and Jim Davis.