Artists from the Ossining Arts Council (OAC) and Mike Risko Music will host “Second Act: The 2026 OAC Challenge,” a silent auction fundraiser benefiting the Ossining Food Pantry and the OAC on Sunday, October 4 from 6:00–8:00 PM. The event features 15 unplayable stringed instruments—including acoustic and electric guitars, a violin, and ukuleles—transformed into one-of-a-kind visual art.
Mike Risko Music repairs and re-homes donated instruments whenever possible; those beyond musical repair were diverted from landfills to serve as creative canvases for local artists.
“None of these instruments are playable, but we don’t want to throw them away,” said Miriam Risko, co-owner of Mike Risko Music. “Every instrument has a story. Even when it can no longer be played, it can still inspire, connect people, and bring joy in a new way.”
“The Ossining Arts Council is grateful for the enthusiasm and support of Miriam and Mike Risko in this creative endeavor that also helps raise money for two wonderful nonprofit organizations,” said Anne Zimmerman, OAC event coordinator.
“I love the idea of two talented organizations (OAC and Mike Risko Music) getting together to take part in a completely joyous exercise,” said Heather McArdle, Ossining Food Pantry president. “Not only are instruments being repurposed, but artists are able to express themselves. That our local population of food insecure families will benefit from such an endeavor is truly generous and amazing.”
Auction & Event Details
- The silent auction opens at 6:00 PM and silent bidding ends promptly at 7:30 PM. The event runs until 8:00 PM.
- Minimum bids start at $50 per piece.
- Winning bidders may pay by cash, check or credit card. Checks made out to ‘Ossining Food Pantry’ or ‘Ossining Arts Council’. Credit cards only via the secure ‘Donate Now’ button on the Ossining Food Pantry website [OssiningFoodPantry.org].
- Light refreshments and beverages will be served. Street parking is available on side streets to Mike Risko Music and handicapped parking in the Risko Music parking lot.
