Famous Sheffield artists Pete McKee and Joe Scarborough help city charity's survival bid

The Art House is a small charity in the heart of Sheffield working with marginalised people and funded by running art and ceramics classes for the public at its centre on Backfields, off Carver Street.

It opened five years ago, promoting increased well-being by giving people new creative skills and support.

One pottery student is quoted as saying: “The Art House is an important part of my life and I don’t know where I would be without them.”

Another student, Leah, said: “I dearly hope you survive the pandemic as the Art House is a treasure in Sheffield.”

Closing its doors due to Covid-19 in March put the Art House at risk of permanent closure.

The charity has had to find new and creative ways to ensure it can survive.

One of the initiatives created was the Big Yorkshire Art Auction, an online event made possible by generous donations by local artists.

The third and final instalment will take place on Saturday, August 1 via the Bid In online auction site.

Summer of children’s fun

Art programme manager Lisa Parkes said: “We can’t thank the artists that have donated their work enough. It’s provided a lifeline for the charity and has given hope to the people who rely on our services.

"It shows the power, solidarity and generosity of the creative community here in Sheffield.

"Their donations, and the donations of countless others, mean that we have a hope of reopening when it looked like we’d have to close our doors forever.

“The Big Yorkshire Art Auction is a chance for people to own original artwork by their favourite local artists while helping to ensure the future of The Art House and the important work the charity does in the community.”

The Art House’s social media channels – The Art House Sheffield on Facebook, @ArtHouseSheff on Twitter and @arthousesheff on Instagram – will provide updates on the auction.

To donate to a GoFundMe campaign, go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/daisy039s-campaign-for-the-art-house

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