Bidding has commenced for Art UK’s auction fundraiser Buy Art to Help Art UK. Over 140 artists from around the UK have come together to support Art UK’s groundbreaking work democratising access to the national art collection.
The auction features pieces by some of the nation’s most prominent established artists together with many exciting new up-and-coming painters, sculptors and printmakers. With works priced from £50 to £50,000 this is a unique opportunity for collectors of all levels to start or add to a collection, with something available for everyone.
Art UK is a cultural education charity that aims to make the nation’s art collection freely accessible to anybody and everybody for enjoyment, learning and research. Over 80% of the UK’s art is not viewable to the public and the charity aims to change that, fighting towards the goal of making everything publicly owned and available to anyone, anywhere.
Artists
Artists including Zarina Bhimji, Richard Deacon RA, Graham Fagen, Jordy Kerwick, David Mach RA, Jock McFadyen RA, Humphrey Ocean RA, Cornelia Parker OBE RA, Veronica Ryan, Raqib Shaw, Conrad Shawcross RA, Yinka Shonibare CBE RA and Rose Wylie RA are all participating towards the fundraiser. Positioned with Art UK’s mission to democratise the world of art, the auction and print sale will include artworks by young, emerging artists such as Archie Franks, Radhika Khimji, Ellie MacGarry and Ryan Orme who have been recommended by established participating artists including Rana Begum RA and Eileen Cooper RA.
The proceeds of the sales will be split equally with the artists. This means that collectors will be able to acquire artwork whilst supporting the work done by Art UK and the 140 artists. Art UK’s share will go towards supporting key areas within the industry. Specifically, funds will go to grow its schools learning resources, add more artworks to its website and tell the stories about underrepresented artists and those who have not had the recognition they are due.
Director of Art UK, Andy Ellis, has emphasised the importance of the funds raised, saying: “Art UK is hugely grateful to all the brilliant artists who have so generously supported this vital fundraising initiative for our charity. The money raised will help us grow access to the national art collection, expand our learning resources and tell the stories behind underrepresented artists. Please support us if you can by buying a great piece of art or telling your friends about what’s on offer.”
Platform
Conrad Shawcross RA states: “Art UK brings the nation’s art collections into our homes via their growing online platform, and the artworks themselves into our schools. They are inspiring the next generation and expanding the educational possibilities of our unique, untapped collections.”
Andria Zafirakou MBE, winner of the Global Teacher Prize in 2018 and Art UK Trustee, explains the point of view for someone who wants and needs to access artwork, saying: “Sometimes teachers have to mix it up and bring excitement and variety when giving lessons. Art UK’s teacher resources have been an essential ‘go to’ for me where I can find the exact resource or artwork I need to inspire my pupils.”
All the works on sale can be view here
To find more information about Art UK, click here
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