“When we requested Ravinder Reddy to share his work for a fundraiser, one day he just walked into my home with his sculpture and gave it to us,” says Amita Talwar, when asked how one of her recent “art camps to raise funds”, received a rather expensive boost from the artist.
This is what you need to know about Reddy’s sculptures. On an average, a small-sized piece can start anywhere from Rs 16 lakh and goes North from there... and the large-sized sculptures start at a whopping Rs 50 lakh. But for the art camp, Reddy made sure the price was slashed by at least a few lakhs and before noon, the sculpture was bought — generating a high amount within a few hours. More importantly, for a good cause.
But artists have always been the spearhead for charities and Reddy certainly is not alone when it comes to helping out. “We had about 32 artists who gave their works for the camp and the funds raised from the event will go and help lives,” adds Amita Talwar, founder secretary — Art for Causes — founded on the very principle that brilliant effort can go for sale to generate money for the needy. In one year, Art for Causes has hosted at least four photography shows to raise funds for different NGOs and this is the first one involving artists.
“For years now, artists have been giving away their works for charity. It makes us feel so much better. Our artwork is being used for a good cause and we are also assured that the people buying our art have a good understanding of it,” explains artist Ravinder Reddy. While there are a few artists who donate their work for free, most lower the price of their work and then, split the final sale amount in half, the artist gets one part and the charity gets the other.
“Indulging in charity work makes me very content and that is why I never hesitate to help,” explains Laxman Aelay, who makes sure that he gives a minimum of six to seven art works every year for charity auctions.
Amita Talwar though has a point, “These auction shows are actually a win-win situation for everyone. The charities get funds, buyers get to own artworks for a relatively cheaper price and artists, get good coverage and even a tax redemption.”
While you can’t ignore the fact that artists do get a tax reduction and well, good coverage, there are many who are inspired by their personal struggle.
“One of the causes that has been dear to my heart is education. Coming from a rural background where education was tough, I fully understand how important and difficult it can be to get a degree. So, whenever there is need to raise funds for education, rest assured my artwork will be there,” says Laxman.
