Terrence Higgins Trust Live Auction 2024

On Monday 15th April, a diverse array of colourful and stigma-freeing artworks will go under the hammer at King Street's famed Christie's auction house. In addition to unrivalled experiences and trips, all for an amazing cause. The auction is a life-changing night supporting the Terrence Higgins Trust, aiding those who are living with and affected by HIV as well as gradually working towards the incredible goal of ending all new HIV cases in the UK by 2030.

Let's dive into some of the pieces up for grabs, including a controversial painting from comedian and TV presenter Joe Lycett to a silk scarf from Jonathan Bailey and a night of Magic Mike Live. Wonderfully unconventional to say the least!

Starting with Joe Lycett's painting from 2020, named 'Slags'. See, many would would view this as an indigo plant dotted with profanity. Others may label it as contemporary. Joe Lycett, however, says the following, "This piece of art, which I have personally created with my own fists,  stands out as a particularly remarkable painting that skilfully captures the essence of flowers. However, this is no ordinary floral representation like you might get from Monet, Georgia O’Keeffe or Bob Ross. Each flower depicted in this artwork carries an unconventional twist, because over each one I’ve written the word ‘slag.’ This term, often used colloquially, here playfully contrasts with the traditional beauty and delicacy associated with flowers, introducing a layer of irony and critique. Through this unique juxtaposition, the painting invites viewers to reconsider their perceptions of beauty and value, and of slags.”

Widely-known as Bridgerton's Lord Anthony and soon to step onto screens as Fiyero in the motion picture of Wicked is Jonathan Bailey. The renowned actor has teamed up with Echo NY to design one of their silk scarves for the Terrence Higgins Trust. Bailey has taken a sharpie to the scarf for this year's auction, giving a signed edition to go under the hammer this April. Bailey expresses his passion for the cause in saying that the, “Terrence Higgins Trust is an iconic force for good. My time filming Fellow Travelers ignited a determination to support charities that hold, nurture and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ family.”

As for the experiences, these vary from cultured and refined orchestral performances to one-of-a-kind sessions and shows. For those who dream of the day that they could experience live opera from their own sofa,  an hour-long concert from Mark Milhofer is up for auction. Not in the theatre, but in your own home! The internationally recognised tenor will be knocking on somebody's front door to give powerful renditions from Mozart to Rossini, under their very roof. Sticking on the theme of classical music - a private cello performance from international cellist, Isobelle Austin, will also be part of the auction. Having worked with chart toppers from Adele to Ed Sheeran, as well as holding onto a Bach prize, Isobelle's delicate selection of own compositions and classical greats will make for a memorably stunning performance.

Any makeup-crazed individual would instantly recognise the pristinely curled moustache of Dominic Skinner, the MAC Director of Makeup Artistry. There will be the opportunity to bid on a makeup artist lot with Skinner, an unforgettable experience that money can't buy. Another fun addition to the auction brings in The Hippodrome's Magic Mike Live. Offering a package of the best seats in the house with a lavish pre-show dinner at The Four Seasons. Topped off with cocktails and a meet and greet with the show's dancers, this experience is sure to be a popular one.

Many of the art lots are vibrant and playful. Including Norbert Bisky's Sketchy Tuesday and Navot Miller's Anmar and Denise in Wedding among pieces from Quentin Blake, Conrad Shawcross and Patrick Hughes to name a few. The auction is sure to be an exciting blend of creative worlds from art to show business and design. Taking steps forward in the ongoing fight against HIV, one lot at a time.

The items are spread across a two auctions. The Timed Auction, that is already live here and the Christie's Live Auction beginning on April 15th 2024 at 7pm. 

Learn more about the items of the Christie's live auction and register for bidding here. 

If you can't make it down to Christie's on the 15th, THT will be live streaming the auction with real-time bidding. Courtesy of The Auction Collective.