The Big Art Auction is a collaboration between The Big Issue Group and Creative Giants, supported by Art Below. A group of contemporary artists have customised a collection of Fender guitars that will be auctioned off on Wednesday 4th November in support of The Big Issue and the important work they are undertaking right now.
Gavin Turk, Vhils, Conrad Shawcross, Joe Rush, Jamie Reid, Lauren Baker, Rugman, Joana Vasconcelos and Goldie are amongst the artists who have contributed. As well as the customised Stratocasters, a range of limited edition and exclusive artworks including lithographs, paintings, prints and sculpture have been donated.
“Such an awesome project to really put light on the homelessness in the UK. Big up Big Issue for involving me in this project, it is an honour.” – Goldie
“We are delighted to be working with Creative Giants and The Auction Collective on this hugely exciting event. The Big Art Auction comes off the back of an idea originally sparked from a kind donation from the legendary guitar manufacturer Fender and the timing couldn’t be better. With footfall down in previously busy high streets across the UK, it’s very tough out there at the moment for Big Issue sellers. The Big Art Auction, with these truly one-off works of art, will raise urgently-needed funds to ensure we can continue to support our sellers, both now and in the future.” – Russell Blackman, MD of The Big Issue
Other artists include Radiohead’s artist of choice Stanley Donwood, Conrad Shawcross, Adam Neate, Gary Stranger, Hayden Kays, and Unskilled Worker as well as a portfolio of limited edition prints donated by Bridgeman Images from Bill Jacklin, Cathie Pilkington, Eileen Cooper, Paul Huxley, Stephen Farthing, and Vanessa Jackson.
“We are so excited and proud to be part of The Big Art Auction. We believe art has the power to inspire, stimulate and promote new ideas! Our team of artists were enlisted to deliver a range of exciting and thought-provoking artwork that could support The Big Issue to explore and challenge the problems of our society today and ultimately raise awareness and funds.” – Simon Vaughan, Director at Creative Giants
The Big Art Auction will be a live-streamed event, taking place at 19.00 on Wednesday 4th November at The Auction Collective. The evening will include video messages from the artists involved.
“It is a cliche to say this, but this really is a once in a lifetime opportunity to own such extraordinary objects of art. The customised guitars auctioned together with more traditional contemporary sculpture and flat art, marry together the worlds of music, fine art and philanthropy in what will be an extremely important fundraising event for The Big Issue during these troubled times.” – Tom Best, Director of The Auction Collective
(top-banner Image credit (c) Louise Haywood-Schiefer)
