Animal art sculpture auction raises thousands for Demelza

Demelza held its Trail with a Tale in Tunbridge Wells throughout the summer. The free event, in partnership with Wild in Art, saw 10 large sculptures, beautifully designed and decorated by local artists, dotted around the town for people to find and enjoy.

There were also 28 smaller animal sculptures decorated by local school children displayed in shops and businesses across the town.

The trail was a family friendly activity designed to raise awareness of the incredible services Demelza provides to children with serious or life-limiting conditions in the area and across Kent, South East London and East Sussex. It also aimed to raise money for the charity.

Last night (Tuesday 30 September) a celebration event took place at the Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells where guests had the opportunity to view the sculptures for the last time.

Some of the artists who painted sculptures, dozens of local business representatives, supporters of the trail, the Mayor and Mayoress of Tunbridge Wells and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council leader Councillor Ben Chapelard were at the event.

Nine of the sculptures went under the hammer at the auction, which was hosted by celebrity auctioneer Raj Bisram, with interested parties bidding in person and over the phone.

All the sculptures were sold and Brassica, a large snail designed and painted by Bearsted-based artist Helen Alexander-Bristow, went for the highest price at £7,000.

A further four blank sculptures, ready for artists to design and paint themselves, were also sold.

Altogether Trail with a Tale, along with the celebration and auction event, raised more than £75,000 for Demelza.

Artist Georgina Luck, who painted Wild Wendy, was there and said: “The auction was a fantastic evening with a buzz of energy about the place.

“Raj was brilliant and it was lovely to hear some real life stories from Demelza. I'm so happy I could be a part of it and help raise funds for this great charity.”

And Brassica's artist Helen said: "What an amazing evening. So much was raised for Demelza and it was honestly beyond words. 

"It was wonderful to see all the incredible sculptures together.

"I'm incredibly grateful for all the love shown towards me and Brassica and a huge thank you to Demelza and the hardworking team whose dedication made it all possible."

Demelza’s Deputy CEO, Hayley Richardson, said: “The Trail was something new for us and we are absolutely delighted with how it was received by local residents, businesses and visitors.

“The beautifully designed sculptures and the accompanying stories really brought the trail to life and we are so pleased they raised even more funds for us at the auction.

“We’re hugely grateful to everyone that has supported the trail and to all those who donated to Demelza. Your generosity will help us to continue providing extraordinary care to extraordinary children and their families.”