Following the incredible success of last year’s Art Anonymous event, Henshaws is launching the event again this October to promote that Art is for everyone.
The online charity art sale gives art lovers an opportunity to acquire beautiful artwork which speaks to them personally - potentially from one of your favourite artists.
They can do so whilst also supporting Henshaws, an organisation dedicated to helping individuals with visual impairments and various disabilities.
For those supported by Henshaws, art serves as a vital creative outlet, offering a powerful means of self-expression.
The exhibition aims to highlight that regardless of physical ability, everyone has the potential to create beautiful and meaningful artwork.
This belief is at the core of Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre, which promotes inclusivity through a wide range of creative workshops.
These workshops, led by local artists throughout the week, provide a safe space in Knaresborough where individuals with disabilities and visual impairments can learn skills from pottery to music to woodwork—a true hub of happiness and creativity.
Clare Granger, a talented local artist and President of Henshaws helps with the event, said:
"We are thrilled to bring you a captivating collection of works by predominantly professional artists.
“These pieces have been generously donated to help us raise much-needed funds for Henshaws."
The artwork featured in Art Anonymous includes a diverse array of media, with most pieces in postcard size.
The exhibition will showcase works by both local and national artists, as well as the Inspirational Art Makers from Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre.
Some of the pieces have been donated by professional artists who regularly exhibit in prestigious galleries and have won awards in the art world, making this sale a unique opportunity for collectors.
You will see names such as the fantastic Ann Shrager and Heather Burton who are renowned in the art work and are all too happy to support Henshaws with their endeavours by donating pieces of their Art.
Adding a special twist to the experience, all artwork in the sale is anonymous, encouraging buyers to choose based solely on the visual appeal of the piece, without knowing the artist's identity until the artwork is delivered.
A full list of contributing artists will be available online, with the artists’ names revealed only after purchase.
Submissions include a variety of mediums—photography, prints, watercolours, acrylics, drawings, textiles, and etchings.
Additionally, original works by the art makers from Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre will also be available for purchase.
The sale will launch on October 1st with all Art Work available to purchase.
Each piece is priced at £100, offering a fantastic opportunity to acquire remarkable art while contributing to a vital fundraiser for Henshaws.
Many of the works will be mounted and ready to frame, courtesy of The Whole Picture Company in Harrogate.
Sid Hines, Artist and Organiser, emphasised the inclusive nature of the event:
"Art is for everybody; it does not discriminate by age, colour, creed, religion, or disabilities.
“While some may not see the world with perfect clarity or express themselves verbally, the art created by those with disabilities stands strong alongside the best in this exhibition.
“Let your sight, heart, and mind decide what art is—not the signature in the corner of the picture."
Proceeds from the art sale will go directly to Henshaws Charity.
Flora Simpson, Henshaws Senior Fundraiser, shared her pride in the event:
"We are incredibly proud of our anonymous art sale and everything it represents.
“Last year we saw people from all over the world purchasing Art Work and the joy this brought our service users to see their Art Work sold alongside famous Artists was an indescribable feeling.
“The Art Sale allows people to judge the art solely on the image in front of them, removing any biases."
Flora added:
“We are deeply grateful to the extraordinary artists who have participated, and I want to extend a massive thank you to each of them.
“Art is at the heart and soul of what we do at the Arts and Crafts Centre, and our Art Makers pour their love and passion into every creation.
“This exhibition allows their remarkable abilities to shine, free from any judgment based on their disabilities."
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