A Preview of the Terrence Higgins Trust Auction 2025

On the 31st of March, the art world will once again collide with philanthropy in spectacular fashion as the Terrence Higgins Trust annual auction makes a return to Christie's, King Street. A glamorous evening of art, design, and culture, the auction is set to have another extraordinary line-up of artworks, experiences, and collectibles under the hammer in support of the UK’s leading HIV charity. Terrence Higgins Trust annual auction makes a return to Christie's, King Street. A glamorous evening of art, design, and culture, the auction is set to have an extraordinary line-up of lots from artworks to experiences, and collectibles. All in support of the UK’s leading HIV charity.

For over two decades, this spectacular auction has drawn an elite group of collectors, connoisseurs, and philanthropists together, raising more than £5 million in support of the Terrence Higgins Trust. Proceeds go directly to funding the charity's ongoing mission of ending new HIV cases in the UK, providing vital services to those living with HIV, and combatting the persistent stigma surrounding the condition.

Among the standout lots this year is a powerful piece by Dame Tracey Emin. Known for her raw emotional depth and confessional style, Emin’s piece 'Because you Left - I wanted to hold you' will take centre stage and is sure to get auction paddles flying up. Her notable works include “My Bed” (1998), which depicts Emin’s unmade bed alongside personal belongings, to represent a period of emotional turmoil in her life. This alongside other works, including her collections of neon wall writing that have graced the liked of Frieze and Marylebone's Moco Museum, have made her one of the most influential contemporary British artists of the past century.

Christie’s, a name synonymous with the world’s prime art sales, will once again open its prestigious King Street auction house for the occasion. With exclusive artwork, luxury experiences, and high-profile contributions from the worlds of art and design, the event promises to be another thrilling affair. “Terrence Higgins Trust’s annual auction has been a standout moment of the Christie’s calendar for decades, and we’re delighted to host it once again,” says Patrick Saich, Director of Christie’s. “With an extraordinary line up of artists, including Tracey Emin and Rana Begum, this year’s event is set to make a significant impact in raising both funds and awareness for an incredibly important cause.” Adding to the allure, minimalist artist Rana Begum has contributed a limited edition of prints available for purchase online, ensuring a global audience can take part in the fundraising efforts.

A Night of Art, Experiences and Impact

Among a plethora of unique lots, a few money-cant-buy experiences have made their way under the hammer. One particularly exclusive experience available in the online auction has been kindly donated by Marek Reichman, Chief Creative Officer of Aston Martin Lagonda. This Aston Martin Experience includes a private tour for two of the Aston Martin Factory led by Marek Reichman himself, alongside a drive in an Aston Martin car. Marek is a leader in industrial design who, over the past 13 years, has overseen the design of some of Aston Martin’s most iconic models during a particularly successful period for the house. An experience that will get the hearts of any petrolheads pumping.

Alastair Barford, the portrait artist who’s painted iconic likenesses of Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III. Commissioned by SPHERE's parent company, Illustrated London News, Barford’s portrait of The King was the first to be released during His Majesty's reign, making it a true historical milestone (read more about his portrait of King Charles III here). Not only did it grace the front page of The Times, but it also received worldwide acclaim and adorned the cover of the Illustrated Coronation Edition King Charles III. As a past Scholar of the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust, Alastair’s work has royal approval, with a patronage from King Charles himself. To add to the list of unique auction lots, Alastair has donated a private commission of a painting of your choice, where the winning bidder will enjoy a private sitting with Alastair and will receive a bespoke portrait signed by the artist.

For fashion-minded individuals, the bespoke creation of a Objet d’art handbag with Katia Luna Benaï will be up for bid. In which the winning bidder will sit down with Katia herself to discuss customisation options, including material choice and handle styles to create a bag perfectly designed to their tastes.

Known for their unimaginably eye-catching frocks and vibrantly meticulous artworks, British artist Sir Grayson Perry has generously donated one of their more simplistic works. A pink and blue duotone portrait 'Radiant Pink Lady', crafted from ceramic. Known for their engagement with contemporary social issues and transparency with their own journeys with sexuality, this piece captures Perry’s signature art style by blending craftsmanship with underlying social commentary. Another striking contemporary piece has been donated by visual artist and film director, Leila Bartell. Her painting, 'Dream', explores a state of consciousness where heaviness gives way to light and is heavily inspired by the rich symbolism of dreams in Greek mythology. Invites viewers to reflect on their own paths of renewal and growth, it is a beautiful canvas bursting with colour and hopeful meaning.

The impact of this auction should not be underestimated. “Art has the power to spark conversations, challenge stigma, and change lives,” says Lal Dalamal, Chair of The Auction Committee. “The generosity of the artists, collectors, and supporters who come together for this auction each year is nothing short of incredible. The funds raised help Terrence Higgins Trust continue their life-changing work to ensure no one living with HIV is left behind and drive towards a future where we have ended new cases of HIV in the UK.” Previous auctions have featured pieces from artists such as Antony Gormley and Anish Kapoor, alongside exclusive experiences and one-of-a-kind items such as a signed limited-edition Echo scarf from Jonathan Bailey. This year’s event is no different, promising an equally exciting mix of items.

How to Take Part

This auction comes in two parts, a live auction on the 31st March at 7:00pm and an online auction taking place over a few days.

Whether attending the live auction at Christie’s or bidding online via The Auction Collective, explore the full catalogue at tht.events/theauctioncollective.

Limited-edition prints by Rana Begum can be purchased at tht.org.uk/ranabegum.

With the countdown to the 31st of March well underway, anticipation is building for a night where art and philanthropy converge. As the hammer falls at Christie’s each bid promises a step towards a future with no new HIV cases.