Reuters Media hosted the fourth annual PhotoVoice auction on November 4, raising a record £102,000 for the award-winning charity. PhotoVoice is a unique international non-profit organisation enabling photographic expression by disadvantaged people. It establishes workshops to teach them skills and empower them to achieve their goals.
British author and former politician Jeffrey Archer enthusiastically auctioned 96 collectible prints which were donated for the occasion. Contributors included the acclaimed Lee Miller, Herb Ritts, Martin Parr and George Rodger as well as rising stars of contemporary photography.The event drew a crowd of 300 photographers, editors, media and financial clients.
Prints by Reuters photographers proved very popular, in particular an auspicious print of Barack Obama by Jessica Rinaldi which sold twice over on the night of the US elections. One savvy collector asked to buy a large Reuters photograph on permanent display in the auditorium, with proceeds going to support the work of PhotoVoice.
Since PhotoVoice was established in 1999 it has initiated more than 21 projects in 12 different countries. It has pioneered the use of photography with refugee groups, street children, orphans, the homeless, HIV/ AIDS sufferers and special need groups.
Ayperi Ecer, VP of Reuters Pictures & Graphics explained why the partnership with PhotoVoice has been such a success. "At Reuters, we consider photography as a key element in today's information. Visual talent adds depth and emotion to how we understand our world, our lives. We are therefore especially proud to host the PhotoVoice auction which provides a unique opportunity for public and professionals to collect an extraordinary mix of photography."
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