'UNSEEN', an auction of photography by David Bowie, Sir Rod Stewart, and Noel Gallagher raises vital funds for mental health charity

29 November 2024 - Press release

LEGENDARY ARTISTS INCLUDING NICK CAVE, PET SHOP BOYS, JOAN ARMATRADING, ARCTIC MONKEYS, AND MORE PARTICIPATE IN SUPPORT OF NEW MENTAL HEALTH CHARITY 'MENTAL AID'

IMAGES UP FOR AUCTION HERE

Yesterday evening, MENTAL AID, a charity dedicated to helping rebuild the lives of those suffering from acute mental health issues, brought art, music and philanthropy together, hosting a one-off exhibition and auction at the Iconic Images Gallery, the UK's premier venue for music photography.

A diverse array of attendees joined the event to show their support, including soul singer Mica Paris, Dr Who and Broadchurch star Arthur Darvill, and presenter Anneka Rice.

'Unseen', put together in part by renowned photographer Tony McGee, featured rare and personal photographs taken by some of the world's most iconic musicians, including Noel Gallagher, David Bowie, Bill Wyman, Sir Rod Stewart, Jools Holland, Neil Tennant, Joan Armatrading, Pauline Black, Matt Helders, Suzi Quatro, Mick Fleetwood, and more. The exhibition showcased the creative talents of these legendary names beyond music, reflecting a personal and deeply human connection through the camera. The photographs, some of which have never been seen before, ranged from intimate portraits of bandmates - including a candid shot of Mick Jagger - to personal moments like an early morning sunrise captured by Joan Armatrading on an iPhone.

The one-of-a-kind auction, which served as the centrepiece of the evening, saw competitive bidding by fans and art collectors alike, both in the room and all over the world online. All funds raised from the sales of the images go towards MENTAL AID, which will help the charity continue its vital mission of supporting individuals struggling with severe mental health issues.

The auction link is still live, here, for bidders around the globe to purchase their own original print by their favourite artist, which will include a signed certificate of authentication.

MENTAL AID is founded by two father and son duos - Tony McGee (the prestigious fashion and music photographer, known for his work with stars like David Bowie, Kate Moss, and Madonna), actor and filmmaker Max McGee, Michael Goodall (who has worked in the music and fashion industry for decades and is now dedicated to charity), and Joe Goodall, actor and philanthropist. Their collective aim is to continue to support those in need whilst also spreading the awareness of mental illness.

Tony McGee said in a speech to guests last night:
'Because of sheer serendipity...I photographed David Bowie for his Let's Dance tour. During the session, my polaroid camera was on the floor and I was fiddling around with the tape measure...David picked up my polaroid and took a photograph of me. That was the catalyst for me understanding fully that behind every musician is a great photographer...And now we're going to take around this idea around the world.'  

MENTAL AID's ongoing mission is to provide essential support to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. This auction served as a powerful reminder of how art can inspire change and foster healing.

'Unseen' took place at Iconic Images Gallery, 16 Waterloo Pl, SW1Y 4AR on 28th November at 6.30pm.

Exclusive prints and merchandise are still available to purchase here.

List of artists whose work was featured:

Bill Wyman

Chris Stein (Blondie)

David Bowie

Joan Armatrading

Kevin Godley (10CC)

Matt Helders (Arctic Monkeys)

Mick Fleetwood

Neil Tennant (Pet Shop Boys)

Nick Cave

Noel Gallagher

Pauline Black

Phil Manzanera (Roxy Music)

Richard Butler (The Psychedelic Furs)

Sir Rod Stewart

Suggs

Suzi Quatro