Artists Unite to Support Dublin Simon at Launch of Major Auction of Art, Photography and Memorabilia

Auction for more than 200 unique items of art and memorabilia is now live and bids can be made until 2pm on 4^th December to support Dublin Simon Community

Dublin 25th November 2023: ‘A Community of Hope: Artists for Dublin Simon’ auction, is now open for bidding and more than 150 revered artists, musicians, and public figures from across Ireland have contributed unique artwork and memorabilia to raise funds for essential frontline services provided by Dublin Simon to combat homelessness.

The auction was launched on Friday 24^th November in Gormleys Fine Art where contributing artists, musicians and guests gathered to view the eclectic collection and enjoyed a selection of songs performed by Dublin Simon client Eddie, who told the story of how the charity’s services helped get him back on his feet.

The auction is the brainchild of artist and philanthropist, John O’Donnell, who, upon his return from 30 years overseas, was deeply moved by the homelessness crisis in Dublin. Now an artist, conservationist and currently based in the heart of the city, John’s interactions with those experiencing homelessness propelled him to utilise his network to organise this remarkable auction, in association with Dublin Simon Community.

The auction hosts a diverse range of artworks, photography, and unique music memorabilia, contributed by renowned personalities including paintings from artists such as Guggi, David Booth, Fraser Holden, Anna McKeever, Helen Steele and Jim Fitzpatrick.  There is photography from Conor Horgan, John Hewson, Cormac Figgis, Peter Rowan and Nina Val; music memorabilia from Caroline Corr, Finbarr Furey and Imelda May, as well as a range of work from well-known musicians such as Hozier, Chris de Burgh, Andrea Corr, Wallis Bird, Mary Coughlan, Cormac Begley and Liam O Maonlaí.  Auction lots are estimated to range from approximately €100 to a staggering €7,000, so there’s a piece of art for every patron.

John O’Donnell said: “I felt moved to action by what I saw every day on the streets of Dublin and the conversations I had with people who were sleeping rough around the city.  In our conversations the Dublin Simon name kept coming up, and when I looked into the work they do I knew that this was the ideal organisation to partner with to ensure that funds raised would be used at the frontline of the homelessness crisis.”

He added: “It has been a huge undertaking to bring this event together and I am astounded by the generosity of the artists and personalities who have delivered incredible art works for this auction.  I hope that this will be the first in a long line of annual art auctions to support Dublin Simon Community.”

CEO of Dublin Simon Community, Catherine Kenny said: “Events like a ‘Community of Hope’ are essential in raising funds to enable us to continue our frontline work to end homelessness.  The demand for our services is growing and we are working hard to deliver positive outcomes for our clients.  We are exceptionally grateful to John O’Donnell, Gormleys Fine Art, Adams Auctioneers, and all of the artists, musicians and personalities who have come together to ensure that their talent can create hope for people experiencing homelessness. “

Gormleys Fine Art and Adam’s Auctioneers have generously provided showroom and auctioneering services for the event.

A spokesperson for Gormleys Fine Art said, “We are honoured to stand with Dublin Simon and to support this crucial initiative. The overwhelming response from the artistic community mirrors the collective resolve to address homelessness. This auction is not merely a fundraising event; it’s a testament to the importance and power of communal solidarity.”

The ‘A Community of Hope: Artists for Dublin Simon’ auction opens a window to the public to view and bid on the collection online at Adams.ie until 4^th December at 2pm. Additionally, the collection will be available for in-person viewing at Gormleys Fine Art on Frederick Street in Dublin City Centre until Monday 4^th December from 10am – 5.30pm Mon- Sat.

For further information visit the web page here.  The complete catalogue is also accessible at Gormleys.ie and Adams.ie.