I had planned, organized, and accompanied many auctions – but in September 2025, I stood behind the auction rostrum for the first time myself. The occasion could not have been more fitting: a charity art auction at Villa Windhorst in aid of children with cancer, featuring 19 works by various artists – including pieces by Klaus Staeck and Götz Gramlich.

What made it special was the audience: predominantly very young first-time bidders, many of whom had never participated in an auction before. Without starting or reserve prices, everyone was invited to bid – regardless of prior knowledge or budget. And the bidding was lively, with humor, enthusiasm, and genuine collector spirit. Witnessing someone acquire their very first work of art from the rostrum was the true highlight of the evening for me.

Lowering the Threshold to Art Ownership

Behind the evening stands a conviction that shapes all my work: art should not disappear into storage, but find its way to people who appreciate it. Before the first hammer fell, guests were able to view the works in the summer atmosphere of the villa’s garden and select their favorites – art mediation without barriers. As auctioneer, I briefly contextualized each work and guided the bidders through the evening.

The Good Cause

The entire proceeds of over €3,000 went directly to Regenbogen e.V. Hildesheim and support children with cancer and their families. For me, the evening confirmed that auctions can be more than marketplaces: places where new collectors emerge – and where art makes a difference.

More about my work: Collections & Estates · All Projects