AUCTION MAKES SAFE GLOW!

Amongst the throng of artists, designers and art aficionados, SAFE supporters and celebrity stars schmoozed the night away surrounded by 50 outstanding works produced by some talented New Zealand artists. Auckland mayor, Hon John Banks, gave an impassioned opening speech commending SAFE for its work defending animals in New Zealand.

SAFE's fifth annual Charity Art Auction was held on Saturday 1 November 2008 at the SOCA Gallery in Auckland under the direction of the Art+Object auctioneers (TV1's Auction House). 'A Bid for Freedom' was hosted by TV personality Jaquie Brown, who performed an outstanding and entertaining role as MC. The auction featured 50 works by some of New Zealand's most renowned artists and even artist musicians Ruban Nielson (Mint Chicks) and Jools Topp (Topp Twins).

SAFE's promotions manager, Amanda Sorrenson, was over the moon at the turn out on a wet and windy Saturday night.

"It was overwhelming to see so many supporters of the SAFE auction in attendance, coming in out of the cold to the spectacle of fantastic art works, wonderful speakers and plentiful wine! It was a proud moment for SAFE to have the impassioned endorsement of the mayor, the presence of the wonderful guests and MC, and especially to be able to showcase the calibre of artists who donated? works. It was very heartening to know that many in our society share our desire to see an end to the cruelty of factory farming."

Amongst the vibrant crowd it was great to see some well-known animal lovers: fashion designer and entrepreneur Annah Stretton, Sunday Star-Times' Bridget Saunders, Outrageous Fortune's Tammy Davis and Auckland City Councillor Cathy Casey, to name but a few. SAFE looks forward to this annual event being bigger and better next year. The auction raised over $30,000.

VIEW THE WORKS.

For enquiries call SAFE's Promotions Manager Amanda Sorrenson on 09 361 5646 or email amanda@safe.org.nz