The Italian Horse Protection Association (IHP), in collaboration with Alessandra Bianchini, owner of the Porcellino Gallery, has combined art and their love of horses to create a unique fundraising event in Florence.
Over 50 Italian and international artists have contributed works of art to create the exhibition Horse Utopia, which runs until May 28 at the Porcellino Gallery Art Boutique B&B ( piazza del Mercato 4) from 2-7.30pm every day. The event culminates on May 29 with a silent auction of the works of art, with all proceeds going towards the IHP. From 10am-6pm, there will be a public exhibition of the works and auction. Following on, at 6.30pm, an exclusive cocktail party can be enjoyed by bidders, artists and invited guests only, all held in the Palazzo di Parte Guelfa (piazza di Parte Guelfa). Many of the artists will be present throughout the exhibition and auction on May 29, including Italian artist, Lorenzo Campostrini, British artist, Astrid Harrisson and French artist, Frédérique Lavergne, whose works will be on display. Special thanks also go to Alessandro Secci, who has contributed greatly to this event.
Bianchini, a lifetime activist for equine welfare, is enthusiastic about the first edition of this event stating, ‘It’s wonderful that there are so many international artists who have donated their works for this cause. We hope to make this an annual event.’
Events coordinator, Elle Haugen commented that ‘it has been a pleasure to be a part of this exhibition. The Porcellino Gallery is a wonderfully chic B & B that has a most interesting duality of also being a gallery. We have had many meetings with the founder of the IHP, Antonio Nardi-Dei, and he is a wonderful man who is devoted to helping all animals. His views are insightful and inspiring.’
The worthwhile cause welcomes the Florentine Minister of Culture on May 29 to make the opening speech before the auction begins. So, canter down to the Porcellino Gallery to admire the art work and place your bid: it won’t be on furlong! For more information, see http://theflr.net/cr0swu
