A “SILENT” art auction running in Galway this week aims to raise funds for Console, the charity which supports people bereaved through suicide.
A bodhrán owned by musician Johnny “Ringo” McDonagh valued at €3,000 and works by Gertrude Degenhardt and Leonie King are among the art pieces submitted to the Kenny Gallery, which is hosting the event.
The bodhrán, signed by 75 actors and fellow musicians such as Dolores Keane and Eleanor Shanley, was played by McDonagh while on tour with Mike Oldfield. Its beat and “thrum” can be heard on Oldfield’s “iconic” album,Tubular Bells.
Two film posters signed by Gene Hackman and Julia Roberts respectively are valued at €500 each, while paintings by Lorraine Fletcher and Jim McKee are currently displayed with etchings by King and Degenhardt and John Igoe in the gallery window in Shop Street.
All proceeds from the final bids accepted by this Saturday will go towards Console, according to Tom Kenny of the gallery. “It’s also about raising awareness for this charity, which gives tremendous support to families bereaved by suicide,” he said.
The organisation provides professional support and a helpline service for those relatives who are left to deal with the devastating impact of suicide.
Console was one of the participating organisations in last week’s march by the Action on Suicide Alliance to the Dáil. A letter was handed to Minister of State for Health Jimmy Devins, calling on the Government to implement recommendations made in recent reports, and to allocate funds for suicide prevention.
The idea for the silent auction – Galway’s version of eBay – came about when artists wanted to contribute to a fundraising music gig hosted by Johnny “Ringo” McDonagh. People can place their bids by contacting the gallery or by submitting them over the internet.
Contact the Kenny Gallery at 091-534760, e-mail art@kennys.ie and www.thekennygallery.ie
Console’s national helpline is 1800 201 890 and website is www.console.ie