Migrate Art, since its inception in 2016 by Simon Butler, has emerged as a groundbreaking social enterprise at the forefront of leveraging art for social and environmental activism. With a remarkable history of raising over £1.6 million for charity through art, Migrate Art is embarking on its latest venture, "From The Ashes," an exhibition and auction designed to support the Indigenous Associations of Upper Xingu in the Amazon Rainforest, severely impacted by illegal deforestation.
"From The Ashes" is a pioneering project that showcases the collaboration between Migrate Art and the London-based People’s Palace Projects, bringing together 27 contemporary artists from across the world. This initiative stands out for its creative approach to fundraising, with artists creating works from the ash and charcoal of the burnt Amazon. The exhibition, slated for display at The Old Truman Brewery in London in February 2024, followed by an auction at Christie’s in March 2024, aims to fund resistance against deforestation and support indigenous-led reforesting initiatives in the Xingu territory.
Migrate Art's journey began from a profound desire to make a difference in the global refugee crisis, as recounted by founder Simon Butler. Inspired by the dire conditions in the Calais Jungle refugee camp, Butler leveraged his background in contemporary art to raise funds and awareness for marginalized and displaced communities. One of Migrate Art's notable projects involved creating unique, charitable works from salvaged pencils and crayons from the Calais Jungle, involving renowned artists like Sean Scully, Rachel Whiteread, and Kevin Francis Gray. This initiative, named "Multicolour," exemplifies Migrate Art's innovative approach to combining art with philanthropy, with 90% of the profits donated to key charity partners involved in refugee aid.
Migrate Art's work underscores the power of art to not only reflect societal issues but to actively participate in creating change. Through its unique projects, Migrate Art has established a platform where art transcends aesthetic value, becoming a tool for advocacy, environmental conservation, and social justice. "From The Ashes" and "Multicolour" are just two examples of how Migrate Art harnesses the creative industry to inspire action and support for those in need, embodying the belief in the transformative power of art to address global challenges.
