News & Insights

Tennants Joins National Gavel Art Trail to Support Life-Changing Charities

18th July 2025.

Leyburn, North Yorkshire – Tennants Auctioneers is proud to announce its participation in a unique and inspiring fundraising initiative, the Gavel Art Trail, launched by The Bidpath Foundation in collaboration with Wild in Art. Tennants is one of just 15 auction houses across the UK invited to take part in this nationwide celebration of art, auctions, and philanthropy.

The Gavel Art Trail will raise vital funds for three exceptional causes: The Brain Tumour CharityThe National Brain Appeal, and the International Children’s Palliative Care Network (ICPCN).

As part of the campaign, Tennants has sponsored a striking 100cm gavel sculpture, which will be transformed into a vibrant work of art by celebrated Northern artist Jonathan Armigel Wade. Known for his dynamic and whimsical style, Wade will bring to life scenes from North Yorkshire in a design that captures the charm and character of the region.

Visitors to Tennants will have the rare opportunity to watch the artist at work from lunchtime on 21st July and the 22nd July, as he paints the sculpture live on site. Once completed, the gavel will remain on public display at Tennants throughout September and October, offering art lovers and visitors a chance to admire the finished piece.

The campaign will culminate in a high-profile charity auction in London on Thursday 6th November, where the gavel will be sold to raise funds for the three partner charities.

Jonathan Armigel Wade commented: “It’s a real pleasure to be part of this imaginative project. The gavel is such a powerful symbol of the auction world, and I’m excited to reimagine it with a touch of Yorkshire’s colour and character. I hope the finished piece brings joy to those who see it—and raises vital funds for these incredibly important causes.”

“We are delighted to be associated with such a well-regarded artist and we are thrilled that Jonathan has kindly donated his time and talent to creating our gavel”.  added Jane Tennant, director.  “The project is a wonderful way to celebrate the power of art and community while supporting causes that make a real difference in people’s lives.”

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