Artists run online auction to help Haitians

New Zealand artists are combining with their Australian and British counterparts to contribute to the Haiti earthquake aid efforts with an online auction.

The Art Loves Haiti auction, being run through Trade Me, was conceived after the auction of a rare piece of Ladyhawke artwork last week which raised $2866 for Save the Children's Haiti appeal.

Art Loves Haiti organiser and artist Sarah Larnach, the stepsister of New Zealander Emily Sanson-Rejouis, who lost her husband and two young daughters in the January 12 earthquake, said the auction aimed to help rebuild the lives of children and their families in Haiti.

"I am so grateful for the support that has been shown for this fundraising initiative, and for the compassion being demonstrated in New Zealand and abroad for the plight of so many who have been affected by the tragedy in Haiti," Ms Larnach said.

New Zealand artists contributing to the auction include Ms Larnach, Henrietta Harris, Shane Hansen, Dave Ladd, Sam Mahayni, while New Zealand band Minuit have put forward the original cover art for their latest album.

Joining them are Australia's Fleur Harris and Keisha Galbraith, as well as London-based Anna Stiles.

Save the Children chief executive Liz Gibbs said the artists had shown great support for their cause by organising the auction.

- NZPA