8th August 2025 | by Debbie Snelson on behalf of Wilson55
Wilson55 are absolutely delighted to be taking part in the Gavel Art Trail & Auction, a nationwide charity event to help raise essential funds for three charities: The Brain Tumour Charity, The National Brain Appeal, and the International Children’s Palliative Care Network (ICPCN).
Organised by the Bidpath Foundation, in collaboration with Wild in Art, we feel very privileged to be one of just 15 auction houses invited to participate. To support the event, Wilson55 has sponsored a handcrafted, 100cm supersized gavel sculpture which … drum roll please … will be painted by the amazingly talented Artist and Animator Lucy Manfredi MA, MAFA!
Artist Lucy Manfredi and Wilson55's Managing Director and Northern Art Specialist, Stephen Sparrow with the gavel before painting
We are incredibly honoured that Lucy has agreed to be our artist. Based in Nantwich, Cheshire, Wilson55 are well known for our specialist Northern Art Sales, so we want our gavel to feel unmistakably Northern. Lucy is undoubtedly the perfect fit.
Not only does she live in our local town, but she is already making waves in the Northern Art world. She was tipped as a rising star by the renowned (now retired), Hale art dealer, Bill Clark, and in 2018 became an elected member of the Manchester Academy of Fine Arts (MAFA), further cementing her status as an artist to watch.
The public will be able to visit the Wilson55 saleroom to watch Lucy as she adds her finishing touches to the sculpture. It will then remain on display here during September and October, available for anyone to view as they follow the national art trail.
The grand finale will be on 6th November 2025 when all 15 one-of-a-kind gavels will be auctioned off as part of a major fundraising event in London. We can’t wait!
Stephen Sparrow, Wilson55 Managing Director and Northern Art Specialist, comments:
“We were honoured to be invited to take part in such a significant fundraising initiative. Our aim was for the gavel to embody the spirit and vibrancy of our renowned Northern Art sales, and with Lucy as our chosen artist, we knew it would be something truly special. Her remarkable talent and the unforgettable characters she creates make this the perfect piece to help raise vital funds for these outstanding causes."
Stay tuned and keep an eye on our social channels for exciting updates, including announcements for open days and exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses into Lucy’s creative journey with her gavel painting!
