Contemporary Kiwi Artists Unite for Breast Cancer Fundraising Auction

By MiNDFOOD

Works by Alan Ibell (L) and Claudia Kogachi included in the fundraising auction. Images / Supplied
Works by Alan Ibell (L) and Claudia Kogachi included in the fundraising auction. Images / Supplied
Kiwi lingerie brand OHEN Underwear is spearheading a unique art auction for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The independent lingerie brand’s founders have united a number of contemporary Kiwi artists and gallerists to create or donate 20 works for an exhibition. Each piece will be auctioned, with all funds donated to Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand (BCFNZ).

With an obvious related focus, OHEN ‘s founders believes they are uniquely positioned to help support the 3,500 women diagnosed with breast cancer annually in Aotearoa*.

“Breasts are at the heart of what we do, and we want to make sure breast health is a collective responsibility,” says co-founder Lu Blade. “No one should face breast cancer without the support they need.”

The funds will help support BCFNZ’s work, including breast cancer research, awareness, and early detection programs.

Works by Caitlin Devoy (L) and Erica van Zon including in the exhibition and auction. Images / Supplied

The multidisciplinary art exhibition also features smaller works available for direct purchase, while larger pieces (valued at $1,000 and above) will be auctioned off on the 23rd October.

Artists and galleries involved in the exhibition include works in many mediums – jewellery by Claire Hammon from Meadowlark, glass works by Kate Mitchell, Simon Lewis-Wards and Kate Ruteki. Paintings by Grace Bader, Ruby Wilkinson, Alan Ibell, prints by Claudia Kogachi, Priscilla Rose Howe and a very unique sculpture by Caitlin Devoy ‘Switch (mid-mid)’ and photographic works by photographer and director, Amber Jones among others.

More than just an art show, the organisers say the exhibition also seeks to spark meaningful conversations and inspire action. Currently, 30% of eligible Kiwi women aren’t utilising their free mammograms despite the screenings detecting 80–90% of breast cancers*.

This exhibition hopes to empower visitors to take charge of their breast health while encouraging the women around them to do the same.

Contributing Artists:

Alan Ibell
Amber Jones
Caitlin Devoy – Jhana Millers
Claudia Kogachi – Jhana Millers
Caroline McQuarrie – Jhana Millers
Claire Hammon
Devon Ormsby
Erica van Zon – Jhana Millers
Grace Bader
Judith Lawson
Kate Mitchell
Katherine Ruteki
Priscilla Rose Howe
Ruby Wilkinson
Simon Lewis Wards

  • The exhibition is on now at Allpress Studio, 8 Drake Street, Freemans Bay, Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland until October 24th.

*Statistics references: Te Rēhita Mate Ūtaetae – Breast Cancer Foundation National Register, BreastScreen Aotearoa

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