ABC Mental As… Art Auction

Bidding goes live today on a series of artworks donated by high profile artists, to raise funds for ABC’s Mental As… week (next week).

The ABC Mental As… Art Auction, which includes four Archibald winners, comprises Ben Quilty, Daniel Boyd, Del Kathryn Barton, Euan Macleod, Fiona Lowry, Leah Fraser, Reg Mombassa, Richard Bell, Robert Malherbe and Tim Sharp.

Their pieces exploring themes of mental illness are available for sale via an online auction concluding on Sunday October 12. Starting prices for the pieces range from $1,500 to $12,500.

“The artworks being auctioned for ABC Mental As… are not just vibrant pieces from some of our most cherished artists but also reflect the reason why we are supporting this initiative,” said ABC Managing Director, Mark Scott.

“Like all good art these pieces demand discussion and ABC Mental As… is about a discussion and conversation with each other on a major issue affecting every one of us in some way. We’re delighted with the calibre of the artists involved, the quality of their artwork and their generosity in participating in this incredibly worthwhile project.”

Katrina Sedgwick, ABC Head of Arts said, “The arts have always played a vital part in illuminating issues around mental health – both through representation and through the cathartic process of making or engaging with art. Artists are unique in their ability to creatively challenge norms, to ask hard questions and to illustrate and explore truths our mainstream society would rather ignore. We are really delighted that these wonderful artists have engaged so deeply with ABC Mental As… and
our awareness raising campaign.”

The artworks will also be on display in the ABC’s Ultimo foyer until October 10. The following interstitials will also pop up on ABC over the next week.

You can view the artists work now and register your interest to bid at abc.net.au/mentalas