Antony Gormley and other artists unite to support Shelter

Antony Gormley, creator of the Angel of the North, and who in 2007 placed 31 cast iron sculptures of himself across London – including on Waterloo Bridge and the roof of ITV – joins other artists to support homeless charity, Shelter.

Gormley (Right, his artwork, Super Ego) is just one of more than 40 of the world’s leading artists and designers including Jake and Dinos Chapman, Grayson Perry, Julian Opie and Patrick Hughes who have come together for an exclusive art exhibition in support of housing and homelessness charity Shelter.

Tracy Griffin, Shelter’s Director of Fundraising, said: “We’re delighted that so many talented people have come together to support Shelter.” She adds, “In these tough times homelessness really can happen to anyone. We hope that people will get bidding to help us raise vital funds.”

Shelter has created the exhibition, which centres on the theme ‘Up My Street’. Artists have donated pieces inspired by a street that has particular significance to them, drawing on characters and buildings as well as personal experiences and memories.

The exhibition, which is headline-sponsored by British Land, aims to raise awareness of the thousands of families in Britain struggling to find and keep a safe and secure place to live. Every two minutes someone faces the nightmare of losing their home and Shelter is there to help whoever’s next.

“This exhibition highlights that home is not just about bricks and mortar. The people, sense of security and wider community make it so important to each and every one of us.” Continues Tracy Griffin, Shelter’s Director of Fundraising.

Original pieces of photography, street art, sculpture, graphic design and painting make up the diverse collection. Other artists involved include photographer Miles Aldridge, street artist Eine and DC Comics illustrator Frank Quitely.

All artwork will be auctioned in aid of Shelter. An online gallery of the exclusive artwork will be available to view at www.shelter.org.uk/upmystreet from Monday 27th February, with the opportunity for people to bid on the artwork remotely.

Patrick Hughes said: “Shelter is a charity that is close to my heart. Having a roof over your head is something we should all be able to take for granted, and most of us do. However, not everyone has a place they can call their own. I hope this exhibition will make people think about the importance of a home and raise awareness of Shelter’s work.” (Right, Patrick’s artwork ‘Cloudy Heart’)

The collection will be on display in a free exhibition at The Conningsby Gallery in London from Monday 5th – Thursday 8th March 2012.