Fatboy Slim and Axel Scheffler send art to Hove school

St Andrew’s Church of England Primary in Hove kicked off its art auction this week by showing work from local artists and celebrities.

Pupils’ painted postcards went on show alongside paintings and drawings from the likes of Axel Scheffler, who drew beloved children’s character The Gruffalo, and Liz Pinchon, author of the Tom Gates book series.

Money from the anonymous auction will go towards much-needed funds for the school, said headteacher Sophie Thomas.

“This has been a very exciting project and will enable us to purchase some crucial resources in the form of books, texts, and art and design materials,” she said.

“We are so grateful to the many contributors who have given us a postcard to help us raise badly needed funds for our school.”

Parents and teachers sent postcards to artists and authors across the country and received dozens of drawings and paintings back.

But the organisers were posed with a problem when renowned subversive art duo Gilbert and George sent in two postcards that were not for children’s eyes and could not be displayed on the school’s walls.

Their artwork will be auctioned off online alongside works from award-winning illustrator Chris Riddell, Brighton street artist Cassette Lord and others.

Event organiser Grace Alemany said the support from locals was “inspiring”.

“The arts are an essential part of education and it’s imperative that we continue to promote creativity in our schools,” she said.

“The support we’ve received from our local community has been truly inspiring.”

Businesses including Artroom Brighton, The Book Nook and Cameron Contemporary Art pitched in to make the exhibition a success.

The artwork went on show at the school last week for parents and pupils to admire.

All professional and celebrity drawings and paintings are available for auction online at www.jumblebee.co.uk/schoolartauction.

The auction is anonymous and final bids must be submitted by November 5.