[Original Article by Harper’s Bazaar]
Louis Vuitton and Sotheby’s have joined forces for a remarkable cause—a dedicated auction featuring “exceptionally remade” Artycapucines bags to raise funds for charitable organizations worldwide. This unique collection consists of 22 bags, each meticulously designed, signed, and presented by a different artist in a Monogram-covered Louis Vuitton Boîte Chapeau. Every sale from this auction will directly support a specific charity chosen by the artist. Let’s explore the fascinating details of this philanthropic collaboration.
The Artycapucines collection by Louis Vuitton offers artists an unparalleled platform to express their distinctive visions on the iconic Capucines bag. Named after Rue Neuve-des-Capucines, the Parisian street where Louis Vuitton opened his first store in 1854, the Capucines bag has been the perfect canvas for artistic exploration over the past four years. Since its launch in 2013, Louis Vuitton has invited six contemporary artists per year to infuse their creativity into the Capucines design. Each artist’s limited-edition creations, comprising 200 bags per design, were previously sold for €8,000 per bag. However, the bags featured in this exclusive Sotheby’s auction are exceptional, as they are one-of-a-kind masterpieces.
A total of 22 esteemed artists are participating in this charity auction, using artisanal techniques to customize these exquisite handbags. Every artist has thoughtfully incorporated their signature beneath the carrying case, paying homage to a 1924 monogrammed Louis Vuitton hatbox design. The fusion of artistic craftsmanship and luxury fashion shines through each uniquely adorned Artycapucines bag.
The proceeds from this auction will directly benefit renowned organizations worldwide, including UNICEF, Médecins sans Frontières, The United Negro College Fund, Teach for China, World Central Kitchen, Opendorf Afrika, and RED, which passionately fights against AIDS. By supporting this auction, participants contribute to making a positive difference in various pressing global issues.
This year’s Artycapucines auction features an exceptional lineup of talented artists, including Amélie Bertrand, Daniel Buren, Sam Falls, Urs Fischer, Gregor Hildebrandt, Donna Huanca, Huang Yuxing, Alex Israel, Liu Wei, Peter Marino, Beatriz Milhazes, Vik Muniz, Jean-Michel Othoniel, Park Seo-Bo, Paola Pivi, Ugo Rondinone, Tschabalala Self, Josh Smith, Jonas Wood, Kennedy Yanko, Zeng Fanzhi, and Zhao Zhao. Their artistic styles and individual visions promise an awe-inspiring collection of art-infused luxury.
The Artycapucines auction will be accessible for online bidding from June 28th to July 12th. To participate in this exceptional event and support the chosen charities, please visit sothebys.com. Join us in this philanthropic journey, where art, fashion, and compassion intertwine for a greater cause. [Credit: Harper’s Bazaar]
