Annual event

The annual event raises money for the Fine Art Degree off-site show, where final year students display their work in London at the end of their degree.  

Antony Gormley, the sculptor behind the iconic Angel of the North and CLASP, which is located on the University’s campus, has donated the print Domain, which was originally produced alongside Gormley’s exhibition at the Baltic in 2003. The print shows a collection of fragments: evoking the relationship between the space and the human body. 

Fine Art alumnus Sean Scully’s work is held in museum collections across the globe. The Royal Academy artist has donated White Rose, a print made to honour the student-led White Rose resistance movement against Hitler in 1942 in Munich’s university. It is an important symbol of protest and resistance.  

Fellow Royal Academician and Newcastle University Alumna, Mali Morris, whose exhibition Returning is on show at the Hatton Gallery until 11 January, has donated Summer Nights, 2023, acrylic on paper.  

Next generation

And it’s not just work by established artists on offer. There’s also the chance to bid for work by the next generation of talented artists studying at the University. Staff, many of whom are well-known artists in their own right, are donating artworks too. There will be around 40 lots up for grabs on the night. 

Organiser Max Bryg said: “The Fine Art Auction is one of the highlights of the Art Department’s calendar. It has been a real privilege to organise it. The event celebrates the relationship between established and emerging artists, which we feel is more crucial than ever considering ongoing budget cuts to the Arts and Culture sector.  

“This event is an opportunity to not only start your collection with a renowned artist's work at an affordable price but also support and invest in the next generation of up-and-coming artists. As part of our ethos in supporting the local creative scene, local businesses also play a role in our night; involving Northeast auctioneer, Ronnie Pygall, to lead our live auction, and hosting the afterparty at The Lubberfiend, which will showcase DJs regular to Ernest, Tokyo and Slack’s Radio. The event is open to everyone, all you need to do is come along or bid online.” 

The  Fine Art Postcard Auction takes place on Friday 22 November. A silent auction will take place in the King Edward VII Building from 5pm to 7.30pm and the live auction will take place from 7.30pm to 9pm in  the Lindisfarne Building. 

For more information visit the auction website or follow the Fine Art Auction Instagram.