Acclaimed artists donate generously for fundraising auction

Chefs who Share – the Art of Giving, the annual culinary and associated philanthropic highlight of the year, returns in September with a chef and artist line-up that is guaranteed to thrill food and art enthusiasts.

This exciting concept, which has raised millions in aid of youth development over the past three years, was developed by philanthropist and custodian Barbara Lenhard and consists of a series of gastronomic events, commencing on 19 September and culminating in the Grand Gala and charity auction on 24 September.

This year, Johannesburg plays host to the event which includes, once again, the participation of top local and international chefs, and features unique art pieces donated by acclaimed artists.

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The art element has played a vital part in the gala’s enormous success over the past three years, thanks to the generous donations artists have made to help raise funds for youth development in South Africa.

As in previous years, works of art will be presented during an auction at the Grand Gala, which, for the first time, will take place in the Johannesburg City Hall.

The auction is set to be one of the highlights of the evening, affording guests the opportunity to bid for outstanding pieces by some of South Africa’s leading artists.

This year’s hand-selected artists, again chosen for their individual success in their respective genres, represent the wide range of backgrounds and personalities that art lovers have come to expect from this annual art highlight. Leading South African artist, Jean Doyle, will once again donate a sculpture, as will Marieke Prinsloo, famously known for her series of public art along the Sea Point promenade. Her piece, Girl with Umbrella, is sure to be a highlight in the bidding catalogue.

Among the prized works that will also come under the hammer are the expressive and unmistakable pieces by Jimmy Law, works by philanthropist Richard Scott, as well as a cheeky pop-art piece by the internationally acclaimed Belgian artist, William Sweetlove.

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Added to the collection are works by renowned sculpturists, photographers and painters such as Michaela Rinaldi, Anton Smit, Lionel Smit and Russell Travers.

“Apart from being unique and collectable, these specially curated works are guaranteed to be a sound investment, as works by the artists featured are known to be sought-after, making it a valuable contribution to any art lover’s collection,” said Lenhard.

Through the successful events of the previous three years held in Cape Town, a total of R6.1-million was raised. Charities that will benefit this year include The Veggie Box Initiative, the Make a Difference Leadership Foundation and the Click Foundation.

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