Unique Incognito Art Sale Celebrates Decade of Supporting Children with Complex Needs
A remarkable charity art fundraiser that has operated for ten years continues to captivate buyers with its unique premise: purchasers acquire original artworks without knowing the artist's identity until after the sale is complete. The Incognito art sale, which has now raised an impressive €1.4 million, supports the vital work of the Jack And Jill Foundation in providing in-home nursing and respite care for children with severe neuro-developmental delays.
Artistic Mystery for a Worthy Cause
This year's sale features 1,926 postcard-sized artworks measuring 6×8 inches, each available for just €75. The collection includes contributions from notable figures such as Irish author and environmentalist Don Conroy and fashion designer William Costelloe, though buyers won't discover which piece belongs to which artist until the sale concludes on May 20.
The Jack And Jill Foundation provides essential nursing care and respite support to families caring for children up to six years old who have severe learning disabilities often accompanied by complex medical needs. These conditions may include brain injuries, genetic diagnoses, cerebral palsy, and undiagnosed conditions that require constant attention and specialized care.
Continuing a Family Legacy of Support
For William Costelloe, creative director at Paul Costelloe following his father's passing last November, participation in the fundraiser represents a continuation of family support for the charity. "Dad was a father of seven and he absolutely loved children," Costelloe explained. "Meeting the beautiful children that he connected with through Jack And Jill, and incognito, he was just so honoured to be part of that journey and to help raise awareness."
Costelloe, who studied fine art and enjoys working with watercolors, described the appeal of the incognito concept: "I think incognito is incredibly unique. I don't know anyone else who actually does this and I think people love a surprise. It really is a treasure hunt and brings joy to people." He added that his own contributions this year are "very fashion forward" in style.
Personal Connections and Artistic Contributions
Don Conroy expressed his admiration for the fundraiser, stating: "For me, incognito is such a truly worthy cause — one that not only highlights the incredible work of Jack and Jill, and the talented artists who support it, but which also gives the public a meaningful way to contribute while enjoying an original work of art."
The sale also includes works from parents directly impacted by the charity's services. Hannah McGrenera from Bishopstown, Cork, mother to five-year-old Mila Beukers, shared her family's experience. Mila was diagnosed with KCNQ2 Encephalopathy, a rare genetic condition causing severe epilepsy and developmental delays, after spending her first month in intensive care.
"I remember thinking—how was I going to manage things by myself when there was a whole nursing team in the hospital," McGrenera recalled. "I was scared, defeated and totally hopeless; it was the darkest time of my life. That's when Jack and Jill stepped in. While everything around me was uncertain, they were my rock."
Expanding Support Through Artistic Generosity
Deirdre Walsh, chief executive of the Jack And Jill Children's Foundation, emphasized how the fundraiser has directly expanded the charity's capacity. "Since incognito started, it has made such a real-world impact for the work that we are able to do," she said. "In those ten years, we have gone from supporting children up to the age of five years, to six years, and now to seven years."
Walsh noted that last year marked the introduction of a counselling service for all families, providing additional emotional support alongside practical care. "Artists tell me that it is a real badge of honour to see their art showcased, while for the art buyer, there is the thrill in securing a treasured piece of art," she added.
The funds raised enable parents to receive much-needed respite, whether for sleep, social connection, or attending to siblings' needs. "We are so grateful to the artists for giving, and to the public for buying, as the gift of time makes a significant difference for Jack And Jill families," Walsh concluded.
The Incognito art sale began on Wednesday and continues through May 20, offering art enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire original works while supporting a cause that has transformed lives for a decade.
