OVER €350 raised at a recent art auction has benefited the St. Vincent de Paul after the woman for whom it was originally organised experienced an improvement in her health and suggested a change to plans.
Ann Corish organised the art auction held at Greenacres to raise funds for Polish mother and artist Katarzyna Gajewska, who had struggled with health complications and mounting bills.
Esteemed Irish artists including Jacinta Crowley-Long, Donal O’Broanáin, Paddy Lennon and others donated works for auction on the evening, while local graphic designers printed posters and brochures to assist in the promoting the event.
In a generous show of support, a local framing company also framed 15 of the paintings on a complimentary basis.
Businesses in County Wexford also chipped in by donating prizes for a raffle held on the night.
Some 30 artists were involved and 53 pieces were hung for the auction evening.
Viewing at the Greenacres Gallery took place from 3pm to 7pm on a recent Saturday afternoon, before the auction got underway.
Ms. Corish was ably assisted by her sister, who travelled from France, as well as by her niece, nephew and dad, who took up auctioneering duties on the evening.
“It was a real family affair,” Ms. Corish said.
Some €373, after costs, was raised on the evening for Ms. Gajewska.
When Ms. Corish made contact with the woman she had not yet met, however, the Polish artist suggested that as she is recovering well the money be given to another cause.
Speaking with the Wexford Echo, Ms. Gajewska said “I am extremely grateful for such an amazing initiative.
“I am feeling humbled and touched that Ann, who I don’t know personally, put so much energy and effort into such an altruistic act.
“Thankfully, health-wise I am much better at the moment and I am able to concentrate on getting back on my feet.
“I suggested to Ann that I would love to pass the kind donations from the purchase of auctioned artworks to people who are still in the same situation I was in a month or two ago.
“I think in light that I was so lucky to survive I owe this to others,” she said, exuding a generosity of spirit.
Works which did not sell on the evening are currently being sold via an online shop, accessible at facebook.com/art2buyrsell.
Read more in the Wexford Echo.