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Frank Braun Art Legacy Auction
Lifting up the legacy of an inspirational artist and teacher.
Port Washington, WI
Let's Be Frank
Mr. Braun was an influencer!
Like many teachers, Frank Braun may not have fully realized the impact he had on his high school art students until years later when they began choosing careers or reflecting on how his calm encouragement helped them navigate not just art, but high school itself.
Frank Braun passed away in February 2012 at the age of 84. In Port Washington, he was known for far more than his role in the classroom. He was active in local art groups, painted murals, volunteered at Christ the King Church, and enjoyed fishing.
One lesser-known chapter of his life, his trading of a painting for a World War II army tank will be highlighted in a video at an upcoming event.
Still, it is Braun’s lasting influence on the hundreds of students he taught between 1958 and 1990 sparking creativity and building confidence that remains his greatest legacy.
Recently, more than 50 pieces of Braun’s artwork were brought out of storage and are now being catalogued, cleaned, and prepared for the Frank Braun Art Legacy Auction.
The event will take place on May 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the American Legion Hall in Port Washington, Wisconsin. The silent auction will accept written bids until 4 p.m., when the closing bell rings. Payment methods include cash (ATM available on-site) or Zelle.
Braun’s daughter, Leslie, a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, shared, “Dad joined the Navy at age 17. He served stateside during World War II, working with returning service personnel those who struggled to handle the war. I think he was very well-suited for that role.”
In recognition of Braun’s support for military organizations, 50% of the auction proceeds will benefit local programs of the Van Ells-Schanen American Legion Post 82 in Port Washington.
As news of the auction has spread, many of Braun’s former students have shared stories online about his positive influence. Some went on to become art museum directors, creative directors in marketing firms, art teachers, and professional artists.
It seems the idea of an “influencer” isn’t new after all Frank Braun was one long before the term existed.