to africa with love

the world of contemporary art showed its heart with a special valentine’s day auction which raised more than $40 million to help fight aids in africa. the red auction, organized by bono, damien hirst, sotheby’s, and gagosian gallery, brought together leading contemporary artists from around the world, each donating major works to auction for the cause.

the auction was set in motion with an “a capella” version of “all you need is love” sung by bono of u2. renowned english artist, damien hirst, can add the title of “philanthropist” to his credits . . . he gave seven works which garnered almost $20 million, as well as being influential in gathering so many other notable artists to contribute their artwork.

the experience touched each artist in ways never imagined. as for hirst, “it’s an amazing result, it’s not sunk in yet but it just shows you what you can do if you put your mind to it. i’m never going to be cynical ever again for a while. a big thank you and a million out of ten for all the artists who gave something. we've helped to change the world a little bit.”