An extraordinary array of contemporary art will go under the hammer tomorrow for Red, the brand created by U2 star and activist Bono, to raise money to combat the Aids epidemic in Africa.
The auction features mainly new works donated by more than 60 artists, including Jasper Johns,
Jeff Koons, Tracey Emin and Anthony Gormley. At a conservative estimate, it could raise $28 million in a few hours of bidding.
The event has been organised by Bono and Damien Hirst, who has contributed seven pieces, including one of his signature medicine cabinets full of pills, entitled Where There's a Will, There's a Way.
That work alone carries a cautious reserve price of $6 million.
Bono first discussed the idea with Hirst two years ago while they were holidaying in the south of France.
Hirst began by sending handwritten letters to about 50 artists, asking them to donate a work. "I thought the personal touch would make all the difference. It was an exercise in the fine art of guilt-tripping."
Many artists responded by making a work specifically for the auction on two suggested themes, red and love. Hirst has given everyone who contributed a limited edition print of one of his works. Money raised will go to the Global Fund anti-Aids programmes in Africa.
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