Artists unite to sell life’s work for cancer charity

Dewsbury-based textile artist Shirley Ross will sell her life’s work as part of Art For Life, the project she has spent so long working on.

After battling breast cancer three years ago, she decided to “give something back” by organising the auction in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Planning began early last year, and after gaining the support of many members of Leeds Fine Artists, of which she is president, she secured the backing of Huddersfield’s North Light Gallery, which tomorrow will host the auction.

Prices start at a couple of hundred pounds, with the most expensive, Shirley’s large scale piece Arizona Quartet, expected to raise around £18,000.

She said: “I was in the position that a lot of artists get, where I’m surrounded by pieces of my own work. My son suggested that not only did I sell my own work, but open it up to other artists in a similar position.

“All the artists will donate at least 40 per cent of the sale to charity, but many, like myself, are donating 100 per cent.”

The work of 35 professional artists is on sale, including pieces by Trevor Pittaway, Alan Hood and Keith Mountain.

The sale is aimed not just at individual collectors, but at businesses and organisations that will be able to display the artwork publicly.

Bids can also be make online at www.artforlifeuk.com.