Art auction packs a punch

Victory Boxing’s first-ever art exhibition fundraiser has swung into action, with a total of 88 artworks up for grabs.

The exhibition is being run online, allowing both local and international buyers to bid on the artworks, which are now on display at the Refinery ArtSpace.

Victory Boxing founder Paul Hampton says they haven’t had a major fundraiser since 2021.

“With the gym getting busier, we’re well overdue for one, with all the proceeds going towards running our programmes,” he says.

Janja Heathfield from the Refinery ArtSpace says there is an impressive array of art waiting for new homes and reckons they’d make great Christmas presents.

“There are artists from across New Zealand and a variety of works from small 3D pieces to large-scale oil paintings - all with different price points.”

Some of the artworks have no reserve, so there is the potential you could pick up something special for a steal.

This includes a Mandy Gargiulo porcelain sculpture with a $1600 value.

“There are also a couple of pieces from Geoff Noble and some life drawings from David James.

“There are prints from Liquid Ink, a Jane Blackmore piece, and others from emerging artists,” she says.

And, of course, there is also the piece that kicked off the entire exhibition – a portrait of boxing champion Joseph Parker.

“There is something for every taste and budget, and it is all for such a good cause,” Janja adds.

Victory Boxing was set up in 2011 with the aim of having a positive impact on young kids in the community, and they have grown from having 20 children involved to more than 400.

The gym runs adult fitness programmes and fitness classes for adults with Parkinson’s Disease, and work alongside community groups and schools.

“There is a real diverse mix of artworks [in the auction], which is a cool reflection of Victory Boxing, as we see people from all walks of life,” Paul adds.

Bidding closes on 14 December and will conclude with a wrap-up party at Deville that night at 6pm, with tickets for $20.

You can view the artworks and start bidding here.