'Suffolk Banksy' artwork to be sold for local zoos
The artist donated their work to the Zoological Society of East Anglia (ZSEA) for auction
The charity which runs Banham Zoo in Norfolk and Africa Alive! in Suffolk is putting the artwork up for auction as instructed by the anonymous artist, named 'The Hat'.
Under the cover of darkness, the exclusive 'Anxiety' painting was left at the gates of Banham Zoo while it was closed during the first lockdown.
Claudia Roberts, Managing Director, said: "Thank you to ‘The Hat’ for such a kind and generous gesture during our time of need. ‘Anxiety’ is a magnificent painting that would make a beautiful addition to any home or private collection.
"The painting’s name of ‘Anxiety’ is quite apt given our charity’s circumstances over the last nine months. Even more so, as the charity’s ethos is to provide opportunities to increase social wellbeing through the proven connection between wellbeing, animals and nature."
Like many zoos across the country, the ongoing pandemic has taken a heavy toll on both the Norfolk and Suffolk sites, with many launching fundraising campaigns to be able to support their animals.
Claudia continued: "We are delighted to have raised £50,000 so far through ‘Wild about Survival’, but we still have a mountain to climb. ZSEA needs a minimum of £25,000 per week to care for more than 10,000 animals at both zoos; now with the added pressure of not receiving any income during two lockdowns.
"By putting this painting up for auction, as requested by The Hat in their handwritten note, it means that a lucky member of the public can enjoy it from the comfort of their own home and we also get to raise vital funds. We are very grateful to The Hat, whoever they may be."
ZSEA lost almost £2 million in visitor income due to closures this year, and while zoos are able to remain open now, the additional safety measures mean they are still forecasting a drop in revenue.
The Hat's painting is being auctioned online on Saturday 12th December by Lacy Scott & Knight.