Unzipped

Thu., Sept. 25, 5:30-10:30 p.m., $35-$40, Crane Arts Building, 1400 N. American St., 215-235-3405, inliquid.com.

by Deni Kasrel

visual art/ auction

The most fundamental rule of art collecting is this: Buy what you like. It's that easy. You don't have to know a lot about art — styles, mediums, periods, who the hot artists are — to be able to pick out something that suits your taste. To get you started is the eighth annual Unzipped benefit auction sponsored by InLiquid, a Philadelphia-based art/design network, featuring works by more than 200 artists. Held in Crane Arts' massive Ice Box Project Space, this silent auction is one of those something-for-everyone deals, with many modes of art, in sizes large and small; the offerings also include goods and services proffered by assorted local businesses. (We've got our eye on Tory Franklin's screen-printed Bird Herder, pictured.)

The bidding wars have already begun online, but to keep dibs on your favorite Isaiah Zagar piece, attending is key. As much a party as an art sale, Unzipped is bringing in free food, drinks, entertainment and an after-party to keep the mood festive and help unwind your wallet — and your preconceived notions about what constitutes art.

Thu., Sept. 25, 5:30-10:30 p.m., $35-$40, Crane Arts Building, 1400 N. American St., 215-235-3405, inliquid.com.