Artist David Larwill’s extraordinary legacy lives on with the 25th annual Artists For Kids’ Culture art auction event this Thursday 25 October 2018.
David founded the charity with his Roar Studio counterparts – raising over a million dollars for vulnerable children. The iconic Artists for Kids’ Culture (AKC) art auction brings together the work of over 60 prominent Australian artists, raising funds to make a direct and positive impact on the lives on children experiencing hardship.
Last year the foundation was able to grant over $100,000, enabling kids to participate in art and cultural activities that would not otherwise be available to them. The charity’s hands-on approach removes the bureaucratic boundaries that often impede access to funding.
Artists, sponsors and the art loving community have continually supported AKC, one of the most loved events on the Melbourne art scene. It is considered by many as “the charity started by David Larwill” – who sadly passed away in 2011.
Amongst the artworks up for auction this year are works by Lewis Miller, Jenny Watson, Lisa Roet, Reko Rennie, David Bromley, Andrew Taylor, Roger Kemp, Sally Smart, Adam Cullen, Hoda Afshar, Mark Schaller and, of course, David Larwill.
AKC Co-Director and widow of David, Fiona Larwill, believes the strength of the foundation lies in this freedom: “We can donate the funds to projects and programs for disadvantaged kids we believe are worthy of support, without a lot of red tape. David would be so proud to see how many vulnerable children have been assisted by AKC.”
Many of the AKC grant recipients have experienced abuse or trauma in their lives and many live in unstable homes. The grants benefit children aged between 5 – 18 in artistic pursuits, music, dance, drama and film, sport, community projects and educational assistance.
“AKC did not only fund me but provided an opportunity for me to follow my dream in dance, which has helped me have a career which would not have been possible without their support,” said AKC ambassador and alumni Brandon Ware – who has benefited from the program.
The annual Artists For Kids’ Culture art auction will take place on Thursday 25 October at 7.00pm at The Park Melbourne, 36 Lakeside Drive, Albert Park. Hosted by MC Brian Nankervis, the event will feature special musical performances from Lisa Miller with Shane O’mara and Charlie Owen and Ella Hooper. For more information, visit: www.akc.org.au for details.
Image: David Larwill (supplied)