Art world rallies for Hebden Bridge auction

Well-known artists from all over the world have donated work to raise money for a flood relief fund to help Hebden Bridge.Artist Caroline Reed, who also works at the town's Trades Club, put out the appeal after witnessing the devastating effects of the Boxing Day flood on local businesses.She came up with the idea of an art auction and put out an appeal on Facebook that has brought paintings and sculptures from as far away as Switzerland, Paris, Sweden and Canada.Caroline, who recently exhibited at the Royal College of Art FLUX show, said: 'It has been unbelievable. What started out as an appeal to friends has turned into an international art auction with 150 lots.'Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year Christian Hook, rising star Lesley Oldaker, figurative artist Lesley Watt and Sweden's D Vincic Sisters have donated work. Canada's Cadoc Artist pulled some of his pictures from an exhibition in New York to send them to Hebden Bridge.Local artists have been equally generous. Award-winning Yorkshire sculptor, Sam Shendi, has donated two pieces for the auction. Kate Lycett has given her picture of Elland Bridge.Kate, who lives and works in Hebden Bridge, said: 'The bridge was destroyed in the floods and but I had already started painting it and the Britannia buildings beyond it. It was an important landmark.'The auction is on March 4. Viewing is from noon and the bidding starts at 7pm at the Trades Club. Would-be buyers can also leave proxy bids. Visit www.floodrecoveryartauction.co.uk Anything unsold will be on sale at a Flood Recovery Art Exhibition at the Creative with Nature Gallery, Todmorden, until May 7.
Elland Bridge by Kate LycettElland Bridge by Kate Lycett
Elland Bridge by Kate Lycett
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