The night saw over 450 people from the art world brought together for an evening that included a champagne reception, an exquisite three-course meal, world-class performances and, of course, the charity art auction. Partnering with auction house Phillips, the artwork was previewed at a short exhibition in Phillips’s flagship gallery space earlier in September.
Joana Vasconcelos, Bharti Kher, Jennifer Bartlett, Virgil Abloh, Harold Ancart, Stuart Pearson Wright and Michael Craig-Martin were among the 20 artists who donated artworks to Art of Wishes. Batia said of the gala:
‘The Make-A-Wish Foundation® has been a part of my life for over a decade. I am thrilled that the art world and artistic community have pulled together in such diverse and meaningful ways in order to show support for the great work this charity does through ‘The Art of Wishes’ Gala and the generous collaboration with Phillips for this Preview.’
The event raised £1.6 million, with all proceeds going directly to Make-A-Wish UK. Thanks to the generosity of all the guests, donators and collaborators, hundreds of children across the country will be able to fulfil their wishes, creating magical memories that will last their lifetimes.