Ai Weiwei and Marina Abramovic Donate Works To Benefit Elton John AIDS Foundation

Eight works generously donated by leading contemporary artists are to be auctioned by Sotheby’s to benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF). Works by Marina Abramović, William Eggleston, Inka Essenhigh, Theaster Gates, Wade Guyton, Louise Lawler, Raymond Pettibon, and Ai Weiwei, will be included in Sotheby’s Contemporary Art Day Sale on 14 November 2013 which will go on public exhibition.

This year’s selection is led by a large format William Eggleston photograph from the early 1970s (est. $100,000/150,000). The artist was the subject of an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art earlier this year and is recognized as one of the pioneers of fine art colour photography.

Sir Elton John said: “All of us at the Elton John AIDS Foundation are deeply grateful to Sotheby’s and to all of the wonderful artists, dealers, and galleries that have partnered with us on this project for the last three years. The funds raised from the special charity lots at the sale will support our continuing efforts to achieve an AIDS- free generation by confronting stigma and discrimination and helping people to access the prevention, treatment and care services they need. This sale truly is art supporting life, and I can’t think of a higher purpose for art than that.”

Tobias Meyer, Sotheby’s Worldwide Head of Contemporary Art, said: “We have long admired the vital work of the Elton John AIDS Foundation and so are delighted to be offering this superb selection of painting, sculpture and photography to benefit their programs. The group of works on offer in November includes pieces by many of the most exciting artists working today that are sure to attract both new and established collectors.”

Right: Ai Weiwei: Watermelon, 2006 Porcelain, Courtesy of the Ai Weiwei Foundation Est. $80/100,000

Left: Marina Abramović: The Spirit in Any Condition Does Not Burn, 2011 Black and White photograph with color text, Digital C- Print, mounted on dibond Edition3of12,+2AP Est. $40,000/60,000

Sotheby’s NY Saturday 9 November. All proceeds from the sale of these eight works will benefit EJAF’s life-saving grant initiatives.

Tags

, ,