Treasures in Your Attic Appraisal Day

The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art presents its third annual Treasures in Your Attic Appraisal Day.

Ever wonder if something you own might be valuable? Sunday, June 5 is the day to find out. The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art presents its third annual Treasures in Your Attic Appraisal Day.

From noon to 5 p.m., a team of local appraisers and a guest appraiser will share their expertise in the Sylvan Auditorium at 2021 E. 71st St. in Tulsa. These are not official written appraisals like those used for insurance purposes. Each appraiser will provide a verbal opinion of the item as well as references so the individual can learn more. All appraisals are meant to educate and entertain someone who is curious about whether an item may have some value. And who knows? Perhaps something could come along that is a candidate for the July 23rd Tulsa visit of “Antiques Roadshow.”

Appraisers for Treasures in Your Attic are Eleanor D. Carmack, Mike Ratcliffe, Lottie Stevens, Laurie Nidiffer, Tattoo Thomas, and special guest – nationally syndicated TV appraiser personality, Gary Piattoni.

Museum executive director Arthur Feldman says that although most of the items are family pieces and flea market finds, he has seen a few important paintings at the event. As part of a second generation antiques business, Arthur is no stranger to the fine art, books, jewelry, glass, silver, furniture, pottery, collectibles, sports memorabilia and more that come through the doors. “Condition is key to any item,” he adds.

When he took over the museum’s leadership role in 2007, he began thinking of a unique way to raise funds for the museum. He wanted something to welcome all people to the museum, regardless of faith, to share what they have in common. An appraisal day seemed fun and educational, and it would serve the purpose.

The first year was a ­surprising success. Word got around and last year was even better. “I’m hoping the third time is a charm,” laughs Arthur, who wants to grow this event into an annual benchmark throughout the area.  

Cost for an appraisal is $15 per item or three items for $40. Museum members get one item appraised for free. All proceeds benefit the museum’s exhibition and publishing programs. At the end of this year, they will have hosted 32 exhibits and 21 publications within five years.

Arthur’s philosophy is to provide an opportunity for ­everyone to learn, enjoy and share. The museum’s exhibits are not just Judaic in nature. They offer history, culture and an insightful look at many diverse backgrounds.

On October 23, the ­museum will open with one of their most important shows ever. For the first time in Tulsa, they will present an exhibition exclusively dedicated to the work of Andy Worhol, entitled “10 Jews of the 20th Century.” The spotlight will be on the contributions of Albert Einstein, Franz Kafka, George Gershwin, Gertrude Stein, Golda Meir, Louis Brandeis, Martin Buber, Sarah Bernhardt, Sigmund Freud and the Marx Brothers.

At the same time, the ­museum will feature more than 40 works of Marc Chagall that deal with the Bible. “This program is a historical, cultural and educational resource for the entire community,” says Arthur.

Doors open at 12 p.m. on June 5 at the Charles Schusterman Jewish Community Center, Sylvan Auditorium, for Treasures in Your Attic Appraisal Day. For more information call (918) 492-1818 or visit www.jewishmuseum.net.

For more information, contact

Sherwin Miller Jewish Museum of Art

2021 E. 71st St.

Tulsa, OK 74136

(918) 492-1818

www.jewishmuseum.net