WW hosts Austerity Xmas BOGOF

Vanita Gold Marilyn, mixed media, 2009

Not many art exhibitions will allow you to walk away with the works without paying for them – and at the same time raise money for a great cause.

But at a special exhibition at WW Gallery in Clapton, when you buy one piece of contemporary art donated by one of 40 contributors – some of whom have exhibited in big-name galleries such as Jerwood, Saatchi and the V&A – you’ll get another one for nothing. The proceeds of the sale will go to the NSPCC.

“It’s a win-win-win situation,” said Debra Wilson, who along with fellow organiser Chiara Williams is keen to encourage people to purchase art in the run-up to Christmas rather than the usual fad buys. “There is a feel-good factor in contributing to charity, buying a unique gift and getting something for free.”

“Arts funding has been dramatically cut, and it is an age of continued uncertainty for many artists and galleries like ours,” said Chiara. “But while the art community knows that a vibrant arts culture is even more important and enriching during times of recession, sometimes the general public questions this in the face of immediate concerns for their welfare and standards of living.”

The idea arose when one artist was about to give away most of her work because she needed the space in her studio. “She didn’t feel there was much chance of selling it quickly given the current climate,” explained Debra. “Pretty much on the spot, we thought of doing an exhibition that would both critique this age of austerity we are entering, counter this feeling of futility that many artists are experiencing at the moment, and have a greater benefit and purpose.”

The art – priced between £10 and £300 – will be displayed anonymously, with the artist’s name revealed at the point of sale. Images of all the works, which include prints, drawings, delicate watercolours and large oil paintings, can be viewed online and buyers can also reserve work there.

Austerity Xmas BOGOF
WW Gallery
30 Queensdown Road E5 8NN
10 – 19 December
Open Fri, Sat and Sun 12-6pm (by appointment at other times)

Sale starts: 6pm Friday 10 December
Online sale starts: 12pm Saturday 11 December