Sotheby's Covid-19 Charity Auction

Online auction of virtual experiences with leaders in culture, business, politics and science

In this time of separation and socialdistancing, Sotheby’s, who has been uniting collectors with world-class works of art since 1744, and Google came together virtually to raise funds for the International Rescue Committee’s (IRC) work to help respond to the spread of COVID-19 in vulnerable communities. Together with leading figures from all walks of culture, business, politics and science, Sotheby’s and Google launched an online auction of unique experiences to be enjoyed virtually via Google Meet video calls. From intimate conversations and ‘virtual’ drinks to lessons and tutorials, all of the experiences were offered in an online auction open for bidding. Winning bidders had the option to share their experience with front-lines workers and others directly impacted by COVID-19 and the social-distancing.

The list of experiences included commitments from leading names in music, film, public affairs, art & design and science.

David Miliband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee said: “As a global community we are only as strong as the weakest link in the chain and millions of refugees and displaced people are now facing a double emergency with the virus reaching their communities. With those most vulnerable in need of all the help that we can give, we would like to thank Sotheby’s, Google and all the luminaries who have agreed to participate and donate their time for this auction in support of IRC’S front-line efforts to help stop the spread of Covid-19 in vulnerable communities across the US and Europe.”