Artists Zadie Xa and Dominic Chambers contribute works to Art of Wishes auction raising funds for critically ill children – The Art Newspaper

The international art community has always rallied for the UK Art of Wishes charity auction and this year is no exception. The fundraising initiative was launched in 2017 when founder and chair Batia Ofer reached out to art world figures, including artists and gallerists, with the aim of granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Major names such as Tracey Emin and Jeff Koons responded, donating works for the first gala dinner and auction, which raised £2.7m.

Fast forward to October 2025 and Art of Wishes has raised more than £13m for Make-A-Wish UK , granting over 5,000 wishes to children so far. For its fifth gala, to be held at the Chancery Rosewood in London, high-profile art world figures are on board such as the Turner prize-nominated artist Zadie Xa and Dominic Chambers who have both contributed works.

Xa’s piece, Worlding (2025; estimate £30,000-£50,000), was created especially for Art of Wishes. This gridded assemblage of vibrant cut linen pieces draws the viewer inwards towards a hanging seashell. “Xa was reminded of Louise Bourgeois’s spiderweb tapestries as she worked the raw linen together into its concentric pattern before painting it,” says the auction catalogue.

Chambers’s painting In Safe Keeping (2025; estimate £50,000-£70,000) shows a young boy climbing to the top of a tree, experiencing a moment of liberation. Other works consigned include an ornate steel chair by Ron Arad, Big E (2023; estimate £18,000-£25,000) and the Pop Art picture Division (2025; estimate £8,000-£12,000) by Deborah Azzopardi.

The 22 works available for sale can be viewed at Phillips auction house in London (live auction lots can be viewed from 9-12 October) and also online (live and silent lots). “It’s a privilege to stand behind a cause that channels the generosity of the art world into something so profoundly impactful. We are grateful to the artists, galleries, and collectors who have donated,” says Martin Wilson, the chief executive of Phillips, the lead auction partner this year.

“It is a testament to the generosity and spirit of the art world that so many incredible artists selflessly donate their time and talent to Art of Wishes,” Batia Ofer says. “All the works donated have the power to transform the lives of children living with a critical illness by bringing them hope and joy when they need it most.”

This core value remains the bedrock of Art of Wishes, which has launched other inspired projects such as biennial fundraising lunches for influential women in the arts and important creative partnerships, including a series of Lucky bracelets by the luxury jeweller and designer Carolina Bucci. Other sponsors such as Lugano and Frederic Malle have helped Art of Wishes connect to new audiences, boosting the charity’s platform and reach.

Darshan, who had his wish granted in 2017, is testimony to the Make-A-Wish magic. Aged 14 he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, undergoing gruelling chemotherapy, and opted for a home gym kit so he could work out whatever the weather. His social media videos have subsequently inspired young people to lead healthier lifestyles. “I had nothing good in my life… one day I was approached by people from Make-A-Wish…from that day on I had hope,” he said.

Other imaginative wishes have been granted such as budding artist Poppy’s ambition to have her own art exhibition. Inspired by David Hockney and Yayoi Kusama, Poppy found art “took her out of the hospital room and into her imagination”, said her mother Stephanie.

Meanwhile, Dulcie, a fan of Britain’s Got Talent, got the chance to walk the red carpet for the TV talent show (paparazzi even called out her name at the star-studded premiere). Crucially, according to Art of Wishes, many families report feeling joy and happiness more regularly post-wish.

Jason Suckley, the chief executive of Make-A-Wish UK, sums up why the initiative matters. “Wishes have the power to cut through the gruelling daily reality of life with a critical illness, rescuing the magic of childhood and providing a much-needed lifeline to escape ongoing treatments, endless hospital stays, and uncertainty. We’re extremely grateful for every bid and donation from this year’s gala and auction that enables us to reach more children so they too can experience the healing power of a wish.”

This year, collectors, patrons and curators can acquire the crème de la crème of contemporary art thanks to Art of Wishes—dig deep and make a difference to a critically ill child on 13 October.

• The Art of Wishes charity auction is live until Monday 13 October

• Carolina Bucci’s collection of lucky bracelets for Art of Wishes are available here