Famous artists go under the hammer

Original artwork from both famous and lesser-known artists are going under the hammer at Newcastle University next week.

Each year, fine art students host a Postcard Auction to raise funds for their final degree show and previous contributors have included Tracey Emin, George Shaw and Julian Opie.

The auction, which is taking place in the Hatton Gallery on Friday 6 December 2013, aims to raise money through both a silent and live auction of signed artists’ and art students’ works, donated by local and national contacts.

“The Postcard Auction has great support from artists all over the UK and is a great place to pick up a bargain,” says Phil Frankland, one of the organisers. “Last year a Tim Bavington print worth $3000 sold for just £1000.”

Visitors to the auction are also encouraged to invest for the future by supporting aspiring artists at the start of their careers.

The annual Postcard Auction is supported by Anderson and Garland Auction House, with John Bullock-Anderson acting as the auctioneer for this year’s event, as well as for many previous events. “It is a great honour to have the support of such a respected and renowned auction house, while Mr Bullock-Anderson’s enthusiasm and charisma always promises for a night of great entertainment,” says Phil.

The event is open to members of the public at the Hatton Gallery, Claremont Road, NE1 7RU. The silent auction is taking place from 5.30pm and the live auction starts at 7pm, giving visitors plenty of time to seek out potential future masterpieces, as well as get a drink and refreshments from the newly refurbished Keith’s Café, which is situated within the University’s Fine Art Department.

Each year, the students host a number of events to raise money for their Degree Show which funds advertising for the exhibition, helps produce artist catalogues, and supports the exhibition travelling to London. The Postcard Auction is one of the main fundraisers for the show and involves a great deal of work by a large team of passionate and artistic individuals.

This year also sees the opportunity for online bidding before the event.

published on: 27 November 2013