Picture credit: Tom Hunter
Photographers David Bailey and Rankin are among a host of artists set to highlight the ‘depth of Britain’s housing crisis’.
Their photos, designed to look like playing cards, will be auctioned on 28 September as part of a campaign organised by the housing charity Shelter, called House of Cards.
The work, which includes submissions by artist Damien Hirst and fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, will go on show in a free exhibition at the Haunch of Venison gallery in London from 24-28 September.
Members of the public will be able to make silent bids ahead of the live auction.
Photographer Tom Hunter, who created the ‘Queen of Diamonds’ card, said: ‘Having a home is core to people’s happiness and security. I lived in a squat for many years and can really remember the insecure feeling that living in temporary housing gives you.
‘I hope this exhibition will highlight the fundamental need for everyone to have a home.’
Shelter’s chief executive Sam Younger said: ‘We’re delighted that the very best in British art and design have come together to help us create this once in a lifetime event.
‘This exhibition will help raise vital awareness of the depth of Britain’s housing crisis. With an estimated 65,000 homes facing repossession this year and 6 million households suffering stress and depression because of housing costs, more and more people are coming to Shelter for help and support.’
From 24 September, 1,000 limited edition ‘oversized packs of cards’, featuring artwork from the exhibition, will go on sale at www.shelterhouseofcards.org.uk. They will cost £70 each, with all profits going to Shelter.
