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This month, art lovers and seasoned collectors alike have a unique opportunity to get their hands on stunning pieces of figurative art – without breaking the bank. From Monday 7 to Sunday 13 October, the Federation of British Artists (FBA) is hosting an online fundraising auction called Art For All. Timed perfectly to coincide with Frieze Week, this event is designed to make high-quality, original art more accessible to everyone, all while supporting a fantastic cause.
The FBA, based at Mall Galleries, is a charity that’s all about supporting artists working in figurative styles, with exhibitions, prizes, and events that bring their work to a wider audience. This auction will help fund that mission, with all profits going directly towards empowering these artists and continuing the FBA’s work to make art more democratic and accessible.
What’s on offer?
This year, the Art For All auction features over 180 small artworks (all just A4 or A5 in size), as well as a selection of sculptures from artists who are part of the Federation’s nine member societies. These include prestigious groups like the Royal Society of Portrait Painters, the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, and the New English Art Club, to name just a few.
And here’s the twist – while all contributing artists are listed, the auction is anonymous. This means you could find yourself bidding on a piece by an established, leading artist, and securing it for a fraction of its usual price. It’s an exciting prospect for anyone interested in expanding their collection or picking up their first original artwork.
Participating artists this year include Adebanji Alade ROI, Linda Alexander ROI, and Teresa Lawler RI, amongst others, whose works usually sell for much higher prices in galleries. Bidding for some pieces starts as low as £50, making this auction an affordable way to own art from some of the most talented figurative artists in the country.
Democratising art
The FBA’s mission to make art more accessible is at the heart of Art For All. Clare O’Brien, CEO of Mall Galleries and the Federation of British Artists, explains: “The Art For All Auction presents an incredible opportunity for collectors and art lovers to get their hands on some of the very best figurative art, at truly competitive prices. For a minimal investment, these small works, by renowned and emerging artists alike, will bring warmth and soul into your home and have the potential to appreciate in value over time.”
But the auction isn’t just about getting a great deal – it’s also about supporting artists and the broader art community. Every bid placed will help the FBA continue its work, enabling more artists to exhibit their work and thrive in their careers. It’s a win-win for both buyers and artists.
How to get involved
Bidding for Art For All opens at 10am on Monday 7 October, and will close at 6pm on Sunday 13 October. It’s all happening online, making it easy to browse the selection of works from the comfort of your home and place bids whenever it suits you.
If you’ve never taken part in an auction before, fear not, the process is simple. Head to the auction website and start exploring the available pieces. All bids must be placed online, and there’s no cap on the number of bids you can place. If you’re outbid, you’ll be notified, giving you the chance to adjust your offer and stay in the game.
To prevent ‘auction sniping’ (where last-minute bids swoop in to win at the last second), the auction won’t close until no further bids have been placed for a while – so you’ll have a fair chance to secure your favourite piece. Happy bidding!
