Sir Ian McKellen’s Painting Fetches £17,000 for Human Rights Charity

A painting of renowned actor Sir Ian McKellen has sold for £17,000, with all proceeds directed to the Peter Tatchell Foundation, a prominent human rights organization. The auction took place during the launch event of Attitude Magazine’s annual list of LGBTQ+ trailblazers, known as Attitude 101. Sir Ian, aged 86, was the guest of honour at the event, which celebrated influential figures within the LGBTQ+ community.

As the auction began, Sir Ian took to the stage, playfully remarking, “Never mind the painting, lovely as it is, who wouldn’t want to have me in their bedroom?” He emphasized the importance of supporting the Peter Tatchell Foundation, stating, “It is one of the most important institutions in this country, if not the world. I’m sure you’d agree. The least we can do is support it.”

The painting, created by Spanish artist Julia de Gabriel, was eventually purchased by Suki Sandhu, the founder and chief executive of the executive search firm Audeliss. After the auction, Sandhu expressed his admiration for McKellen, saying, “I adore Ian McKellen. He is one of the true icons of our community.”

Sandhu reflected on the impact McKellen and Tatchell have had on the LGBTQ+ movement, stating, “They say we stand on the shoulders of giants. I can’t be who I am now today if it wasn’t for the work that he did decades ago and the work that Peter Tatchell does for our community. The bravery and courage it takes for what he does—how can I not support that?”

Tatchell, a veteran activist, has been known for his unwavering commitment to human rights for decades. Sandhu praised his efforts, noting, “He’s a real activist. He’s been doing it for decades. He’s one of the original activists, I would say, and he’s just amazing.”

Sir Ian McKellen is celebrated for his extensive career in film and theatre. He is perhaps best known for his iconic roles as Magneto in the X-Men series and as Gandalf in Peter Jackson’s adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy novels. His illustrious career has included numerous acclaimed performances of Shakespearean characters, such as Richard II, Macbeth, Coriolanus, and King Lear. Over the years, he has received multiple accolades, including several Olivier Awards.

The successful auction not only highlights the power of art in raising funds for important causes but also underlines the ongoing efforts of figures like Sir Ian McKellen and Peter Tatchell in advocating for human rights and equality within the LGBTQ+ community.