Irish artists and public figures set to participate in charity auction for Dublin Simon Community

The fourth annual Dublin Simon Community Christmas Art Auction is set to take place from Saturday, November 29 to Wednesday, December 9, to raise money in support of homelessness services.

A selection of works will be exhibited at Flux in Dublin from Saturday November 28 to Wednesday December 2, to give people an opportunity to view items prior to bidding.

The auction will feature original artworks by artists such as Paul Hughes, Gerard Byrne, Jane Belton, Jess Kelly, Solus and Guggi.

The charity event will also feature memorabilia and signed items donated by Irish celebrities such as Bono, Imelda May, The Corrs, Éanna Hardwicke, and Aidan Gillen.

Established and curated by Dublin artist John O'Donnell, this will be the fourth year of A Community of Hope.

John O'Donnell shared a statement about the upcoming auction.

"I am delighted that I have once again been able to count on the support of my peers across the Irish art scene to bring this art auction to life. While their generosity warms my heart, the reality for people experiencing homelessness sends a chill down my spine. It is shocking to see how much the situation has deteriorated since I first launched this auction.

"With thousands experiencing the injustice of homelessness, it is now more important than ever that we do what we can to help people emerge from it. Please consider bidding on some of the fantastic items on offer. Your support can really make a difference."

Gerard Byrne, one of the participating artists reflected on the committment of the Irish art community in supporting Dublin Simon Community.

"As an artist, I spend my life observing the world around me. You become attached to the places you paint, and to the people who give those places their meaning. But a city is about more than its streets and buildings; it is about how we look after the people who call it home.

"Being a Dubliner myself, I’m especially pleased to support Dublin Simon Community. If one of my paintings can help make a difference to someone experiencing homelessness, then I can’t think of a better reason to give it away."

According to recent statistics, there are 17,885 people in homeless accommodation across Ireland. The proceeds from A Community of Hope will support Dublin Simon Community's work with those experiencing homelessness, helping them achieve safety, stability, and independence.

More information on the upcoming charity auction can be found here.