Wildlife art exhibition launches to raise money for Born Free
A star-studded art event at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London launched a major exhibition by acclaimed wildlife artist Gary Hodges, in aid of Born Free.
The live auction at the Drawn from the Heart exhibition (c) Clwyd Probert
On Tuesday 1st October, Born Free supporters gathered at the Mall Galleries, in the heart of London, to enjoy the exquisite artwork of internationally-admired artist Gary Hodges. Raising vital funds in aid of Born Free, the Private View was charmingly hosted by our Patron Rula Lenska, the well-loved Coronation Street star, and attended by our charity’s remarkable Co-Founders Dame Virginia McKenna and Will Travers OBE.
Rula Lenska hosting Drawn From the Heart (c) Clwyd Probert
The highly anticipated event launched Gary’s brand-new, major exhibition ‘Drawn from the Heart’, which features 160 artworks including original drawings and individually-embellished prints. A cherished Born Free friend for 35 years, Gary’s beautiful, graphite pencil wildlife drawings emanate personality and affection. His sought-after work is highly collectable and over the years has helped raise over £1 million for Born Free and other wildlife charities.
“It’s so wonderful to see you all here,” said Gary. “With your help, I use my talent for drawing to shout for animals, as they don’t have a voice. Snuggled around us on the walls of this huge gallery is the result of two intense years, a labour of love to celebrate the animals I adore and the charity I love. Without Born Free, our world would be a far harsher place.”
The guests – including many famous faces – enjoyed a drinks-reception courtesy of Vintage Roots, with delicious canapés, before being inspired by Dame Virginia: “I am so fortunate to be a part of this wonderful event, and admire Gary’s truly amazing talent,” she said. “In 1989, my late husband Bill and I first met Gary at a Society of Wildlife Artists exhibition, here at the Mall Galleries. We stood marvelling at Gary’s magnificent work, featuring a mother elephant and her calf. That inspirational piece now hangs in pride of place in my house. Perhaps more than any time in recent memory, we need inspiration and hope, and that is what this room is filled with.”
Dame Virginia McKenna and Gary Hodges at the Drawn From the Heart exhibition (c) Clwyd Probert
It was a real treat to spend the evening with so many Born Free friends and VIP Patrons, with guests including Michaela Strachan, Sally Gunnell OBE, Dame Maureen Lipman and Hayley Mills, as well as renowned wildlife photographer Dave Currey, Gary’s long-term partner.
Katie Marshall performing at Drawn from the Heart (c) Clwyd Probert
The magical night, part of Born Free’s 40th anniversary celebrations, included a performance by Born Free Patron, the award-winning young soprano Katie Marshall, whose heavenly rendition of the classic song ‘Born Free’ moved the audience to tears.
The unforgettable evening also featured a dazzling live auction by charismatic TV auctioneer James Lewis. The exclusive lots included three stunning original artworks by Gary, as well as uniquely embellished prints – enhanced by thousands of new pencil strokes adding texture and tone. Unsurprisingly, bidding was fast and furious!
The evening also included a Silent Auction (see below to get involved), while all ticket holders to the event were delighted to be entered into an exclusive prize draw, with prizes including further embellished prints by Gary and his signed autobiographies.
If you missed out on the evening, there are several ways you can still be involved. Gary’s Drawn from the Heart exhibition will remain open at the Mall Galleries until Saturday 5th October 2024, from 10am-6pm. Admission is free, and you may even see Gary there too!
Gary’s limited-edition book, featuring all images in the Drawn from the Heart show, plus a special Born Free 40th anniversary section, is available for purchase now. The coffee table book is hard-back and gold edged, each one signed and numbered by Gary. With just 200 available and 100% of profits to Born Free, don’t miss out!
You can still bid on lots from Gary’s Silent Auction, available now online. This includes three original artworks as well as 52 unique embellished prints. But again, don’t delay, the Silent Auction closes on Sunday 6th October:
(c) Clwyd Probert