Limited edition pieces raise thousands at art auction
Art work donated by some of today's most sought after names helped the Medical Foundation beat all expectations at its latest auction, raising £60,000.
Virtually all 70 pieces were sold on the night, with many resulting in a bidding war as West London gallery owner and auctioneer Henry Allsopp encouraged guests to demonstrate their support.
Introducing the live auction, which took place at the Building Centre in London, MF trustee Gill Gorrell Barnes referred to the MF's own art therapy services as part of the charity's holistic approach to rehabilitation.
"Art is used for healing, but it is also used for joy, and tonight is about celebrating both," she said.
Among the pieces that generated the most interest was an original by Paula Rego, which fetched almost double the guide price at £14,000. A painting by Patrick Hughes also went for more than anticipated, at £6,600.
Other key pieces sold on the evening included a limited edition collector's print by Ralph Steadman signed by stars including Johnny Depp and Bill Murray, and the late American novelist Kurt Vonnegut.
Contributing to the night's success were also pieces from Bridget Riley, Phil Ashcroft and Zachary Walsh and Mie Olise Kjaergaard.
Paula Rego, Nursing, which sold for £14,000, almost twice the guide price.
A total of 70 pieces were donated to this year's art auction, the third event of its kind.