Observations: Gavin Turk and Paula Rego take on torture
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Some of Britain's most prominent contemporary artists have donated works to the Medical Foundation Art Auction, whose proceeds will support the victims of torture.
The auction, on 20 November, will feature more than 70 pieces of sculpture, photography and paintings, from known and emerging artists, with estimates ranging from £200 to £18,000. For the first time members of the Medical Foundation's Open Art Studio, survivors of torture from around the world who use art as therapy, have also contributed. All of the work, including that of Howard Hodgkin, Gavin Turk, Cornelia Parker, Sarah Lucas and Olivier Garbay, is on public display at London's Royal Institution until the night.
A brilliant-red triangular work, created by former Turner Prize nominee Mark Titchner for the auction, is branded with the message: "Not Now, Never". It is expected to go for at least £2,000. "Torture is an abomination", says Titchner. "The fact that it exists in any form is a stain on the human race. Supporting its victims is the least we can do." Paula Rego's contribution is typically shocking, featuring a mythical woman with vagina dentata looming threateningly over a mother and child. Entitled Mother Loves You, it is expected to go for £14,000-£18,000. "Don't hurt people," Rego says simply of her contribution.
The event has not only inspired existing artists but has also encouraged the likes of Derren Brown and The Prodigy to pick up their paintbrushes.
Brown has donated one of his caricatures, of Stephen Fry, while The Prodigy have teamed up with contemporary pop-artist Stuart Semple.
www.torturecare.org.uk/art
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments