19 unique pieces were auctioned off at an event Sunday hosted by Lafayette to raise money for the Karl Stirner Arts Trail. The trail is a 2.4-mile path that runs along the Bushkill Creek from the old Simon Silk Mill on 13th Street to the base of the stairs that lead to Lafayette.

The Arts Trail currently contains the works of five artists. However, the hope is to transform the trail into a destination to attract lovers of both art and the outdoors. While the trail already attracts residents of Easton and nearby communities, the auction was intended to be the first step in making the trail appeal to visitors from far away, as well.

The auction was led by Contemporary Art Historian Bob Mattison, which offered both silent and live phone bidding for pieces created by a diverse group of artists. 16 artists donated their pieces for the event, which were on display in the Williams Arts Building the week of the auction.

The auction’s goal was to raise $50,000, and a generous patron offered to match the amount if the goal was reached. The initial goal was not reached, but the auction still raised over $40,000 for the trail.

Planning has already begun for next year’s auction.