An exceptional discovery at a thrift store resulted in a sale exceeding £41,000. A keen-eyed volunteer at The Salvation Army’s charity shop in Norwich stumbled upon an original signed print by the late artist David Hockney in a donated book.
The valuable find, a signed print tucked inside a copy of Paper Pools, caught the attention of volunteer Jemma Banks, who recognized its potential worth. The artwork, securely kept in the book for 46 years, was uncovered during a routine check.
Upon identification by the Salvation Army Trading Company and their online platform, the book was auctioned on The Salvation Army’s Collectables & Curiosity eBay shop. The bidding process was intense, culminating in the artwork being sold for an impressive £41,160 to an anonymous buyer who expressed delight in acquiring a piece from an artist they admired.
The purchaser emphasized the significance of supporting The Salvation Army’s charitable endeavors through the acquisition of culturally important items. Jemma Banks shared her astonishment at discovering the hidden gem and was pleased that its sale would contribute to aiding the community.
The book, published in 1980, showcases Hockney’s renowned swimming pool artworks, with the original signed print making it a rare collector’s item. Major Tracey Bale of The Salvation Army’s Norwich Citadel praised Jemma’s expertise for preserving and transforming the artwork into crucial funds for their cause.
David Hockney, a highly acclaimed British artist, passed away peacefully on June 11, leaving behind a legacy of innovative artistry that fused traditional painting with digital mediums. Trained at prestigious art institutions, Hockney emerged as a leading figure among the new wave of British artists in the 1960s.
The heartwarming tale of the thrift store discovery highlights the dedication of volunteers and the profound impact of donations in supporting charitable initiatives.
