Christie's Green Auction - Bid to Save the Earth

CHRISTIE’S ANNOUNCES THIRD ANNUAL GREEN AUCTION:
BID TO SAVE THE EARTH 2012

Proceeds to benefit four of the world’s leading environmental organizations
Visit us on Facebook, Twitter, and at www.bidtosavetheearth.org

 

New York/London/Hong Kong – February 6, 2012 – Christie’s International, the world’s leading art business, is pleased to announce the third annual Green Auction: BID to Save the Earth, to be hosted by Christie’s at Rockefeller Center on April 11, 2012, just two weeks before Earth Day.  A world-class companion auction powered by charitybuzz will run online from March 29 to April 19. The Green Auction is a borderless collaboration of individuals, organizations, and businesses who are engaged, in spirit and action, in the protection and conservation of the environment.   Initiated in 2010 by Christie’s,  the star-studded affair is expected to raise significant proceeds for four of the world’s leading environmental nonprofits – Oceana, Conservation International (CI), Central Park Conservancy (CPC), and Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) – specifically to benefit  water-conservation projects central to each organization. 

“Christie’s is delighted to again host the Green Auction:  BID to Save the Earth – fulfilling our commitment to help raise crucial funds and awareness for the preservation of our planet’s precious resources,” said Steven P. Murphy, Chief Executive Officer of Christie’s International.  “By partnering with four globally renowned and respected not-for-profits, we are honored to help serve as a catalyst in such an endearing effort.”
The 2012 Green Auction, generously supported by JW Marriott, will be co-chaired by Graydon and Anna Carter, James R.  Hedges IV, François-Henri Pinault and Salma Hayek, and David and Susan Rockefeller, with a live musical performance by Grace Potter of Grace Potter & the Nocturnals and overall support from a host committee comprised of New York’s most influential environmentalists, celebrities and philanthropists. FENDI will also be a supporting sponsor.  Following an exclusive cocktail reception presented by Grey Goose® Vodka, the live auction will offer attendees the opportunity to purchase rare, one-of-a-kind fantasy lots – which in past years have included opportunities to: enjoy a day with President Clinton; experience the ultimate treatment at the Oscars®; and sit from row at the Chanel Couture shows in Paris.

The online auction administered by charitybuzz will add hundreds of once-in-a-lifetime packages spanning the worlds of entertainment, fashion, travel, art and more to the lineup, accessible to anyone in the world via http://www.Charitybuzz.com/BidtoSavetheEarth.  This year’s highlights include:  A Mercedes Benz Fashion Week experience; a one-week paid Global Marketing & Communications internship with DKNY; a five-night stay in an over-beach villa in the Maldives; a Girard-Perregaux watch and more!

“We must all take responsibility to protect the natural world for future generations,” said co-chair Susan Rockefeller.   “Everyone can help support Christie’s Green Auction, which delivers a global message about the relevance and necessity to take action and participate in conserving the planet’s precious and finite resources.” 
The choice to focus this year’s theme on water stemmed from each organization’s notion that water is the source of life, and there are simple methods anyone can follow to play a part in preserving it.  The goal of the Green Auction is to raise awareness and funds for the large-scale earth-saving initiatives programmed by each non-profit, as well as to demonstrate how easy it can be to act green in everyday routines.

“Our ocean waters, which cover 70% of this blue planet, are hovering on the brink of an irreversible collapse, with 90% of the ocean’s big fish gone,” said Andrew Sharpless, Chief Executive Officer of Oceana.  “This means an irreplaceable source of food and protein for over a billion people today – and potentially billions more in the future.  Luckily, history and science show us that our oceans can rebound if we put in place and enforce sensible policies.”

“Clean and plentiful water is our most precious resource, and we need to treat it as such,” said Frances Beinecke, President of the Natural Resources Defense Council. “As we enter the 21st century, swelling demand and changing climate patterns are draining rivers and aquifers, and pollution is threatening the quality of what remains. We need to start implementing smart water solutions today, to ensure we’re sustaining, not wasting, this invaluable resource.”

"Central Park is home to 150 acres of water bodies, and water conservation is an important part of the Conservancy’s history of successful Park restoration," adds Doug Blonsky, President of the Central Park Conservancy.  “We're more conscientious about how we use water than ever before - and whether you live in or outside of New York City, there are easy, cost-efficient changes that anyone can adopt to help save our planet.”

"Human beings have always had a strong tie to water, as most of the world's global population lives near a body of water,” said Dr. Greg Stone, Senior vice-president and chief scientist for oceans at Conservation International. “The oceans in particular provide us with irreplaceable benefits; improving their health will be imperative as we prepare to provide for 9 billion people, up from the current 7 billion, on Earth by the middle of this century."

To garner added attention around the Green movement, Christie’s will also be launching its interactive “BID to Save the Earth” campaign.  Beginning February 6, environmental advocates can visit Facebook.com/ABid toSavetheEarth to enter the “My BID to Save the Earth” video contest, which will offer applicants a chance to win admission for two to the exciting event.  Supporters are also invited to follow @bid2saveearth on Twitter for exclusive announcements and updates, and to tweet with the hashtag #Bid2SaveEarth for sharing easy tips on keeping green.

To date, the Green Auction has successfully raised nearly $5 million for its four beneficiaries.  We are also pleased to announce that the Green Auction will be a carbon neutral event.  As in past years, Christie’s will waive all fees associated with the Green Auction. Those interested in sponsoring or contributing to this charitable cause may contact Katelyn Norris at Christie’s.  To donate an experience or package to the online auction, please email greenauction@charitybuzz.com. For additional information on the LIVE and online auctions, visit http://www.bidtosavetheearth.org/.

Please note that the Green Auction is a private and invite-only event.  For media inquiries, please contact Rebecca Janoff, 917.351.8685, rjanoff@hs-pr.com; Toby Usnik, 212.636.2680, tusnik@hristies.com, Katelyn Norris, 212.636.2673, knorris@christies.com.

 

 

About Christie’s
Christie’s, the world's leading art business had global auction and private sales in the first half of 2011 that totaled £2.0 billion/$3.2 billion. In 2010 it achieved global auction and private sales of £3.3 billion/$5.0 billion. Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie's conducted the greatest auctions of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, and today remains a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie’s offers over 450 sales annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewellery, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie’s has 53 offices in 32 countries and 10 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai and Hong Kong. More recently, Christie’s has led the market with expanded initiatives in emerging and new markets such as Russia, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, with successful sales and exhibitions in Beijing, Mumbai and Dubai
*Estimates do not include buyer’s premium. Sales totals are hammer price plus buyer’s premium and do not reflect costs, financing fees or application of buyer’s or seller’s credits.

About NRDC
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization that works to protect people, the places they live and the natural resources we all depend on.  Since 1970, our lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists, with the support of our 1.3 million members and online activists, have worked to create and enforce the bedrock environmental laws that have made our air, water and land cleaner and healthier for communities across the world. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Livingston, Montana, and Beijing. Visit us at www.nrdc.org

About CPC
The Central Park Conservancy’s mission is to restore, manage, and enhance Central Park, in partnership with the public, for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The Conservancy is a private, not-for-profit organization, founded in 1980, that manages Central Park under a contract with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. Thanks to the generosity of many individuals, corporations, and foundations, and the City of New York, the Conservancy has invested more than $550 million to date in the Park, making it a model for urban parks worldwide. The Conservancy raises more than 85 percent of Central Park’s annual $42 million annual park-wide expense budget and is responsible for all basic care of the park. www.centralparknyc.org

About Conservation International
Building upon a strong foundation of science, partnership and field demonstration, CI empowers societies to responsibly and sustainably care for nature, our global biodiversity, for the long term well-being of people. Founded in 1987 and marking its 25th anniversary in 2012, CI has headquarters in the Washington DC area, and 900 employees working in nearly 30 countries on four continents, plus 1,000+ partners around the world. For more information, please visit at www.conservation.org , or on Facebook or Twitter.

About Oceana
Oceana campaigns to protect and restore the world’s oceans. Our teams of marine scientists, economists, lawyers and advocates win specific and concrete policy changes to reduce pollution and to prevent the irreversible collapse of fish populations, marine mammals and other sea life. Global in scope and dedicated to conservation, Oceana has campaigners based in North America, Europe and South and Central America. More than 500,000 members and e-activists in over 150 countries have already joined Oceana. For more information, please visit www.oceana.org.

About charitybuzz
A leader in cause marketing, charitybuzz aligns nonprofits with international brands and celebrity icons to raise funds through innovative online auctions. Featuring pop culture experiences, VIP events, luxury travel, fine art, couture fashion, coveted internships, upscale merchandise and more, charitybuzz brings its online community of socially conscious bidders exclusive opportunities to make a difference.  Since launching, charitybuzz has raised more than $50 million for charities around the globe. To learn more, please visit www.charitybuzz.com, fan us on facebook at www.facebook.com/charitybuzz or follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/charitybuzz.

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2011 BID TO SAVE THE EARTH: CHRISTIE'S GREEN AUCTION RAISES $1.4 MILLION IN ITS FIRST PHASE

SECOND PHASE: COMPANION ONLINE AUCTION POWERED BY CHARITYBUZZ SURPASSES APPROXIMATELY $500K CONTINUING THROUGH APRIL 7TH

FINALE: FASHION SHOW PRESENTED BY RUNWAY TO GREEN TO GENERATE ADDITIONAL PROCEEDS THROUGH FALL 2011

BENEFICIARIES INCLUDE: CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL, OCEANA, NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL AND THE CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY

New York – Christie's is proud to announce The Green Auction: Bid to Save the Earth evening sale, raised $1.4 million to benefit four environmental organizations: Conservation International, Oceana, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and The Central Park Conservancy. There was a tie for the top lot of Tuesday night's auction —An unforgettable Hollywood experience during the Oscars and the opportunity to spend a day with President William Clinton — each realizing $100,000. The Bid to Save the Earth initiative will continue raising funds with the online auction and sales from the Runway to Green Collection.

"Christie's is honored to work with Runway to Green as well as the engaged and inspired leaders from the worlds of culture, finance, fashion, philanthropy and conservation to raise the much needed resources for the preservation of our planet," said Ed Dolman, Christie's Chairman. "Last night's success will support these venerable environmental organizations in conducting research and generating projects that will yield groundbreaking results for the present and future generations. Christie's is more than proud to be a global catalyst in such a noble endeavor."

The 2011 Green Auction marked the inaugural partnership with Runway to Green (RTG).  The unprecedented collaboration between Christie's and RTG brought together top art collectors, philanthropists, financiers, and environmentalists with the fashion community, utilizing their combined influence to raise funds and awareness for the preservation and sustainability of our precious natural resources. Pieces from the Runway to Green Collection are available for purchase on Net-A-Porter.com, and will be available in stores this fall.

Co-Hosted by David and Susan Rockefeller, Graydon and Anna Carter and François-Henri Pinault and Salma Hayek, the auction was officiated by Lydia Fenet, Christie's Director of Strategic Partnerships, along with emcee Saturday Night Live's Seth Meyers. After the auction, guests were surprised by a special musical performance by cutting edge musical artist Nicki Minaj. Attendees included Anna Wintour, David Rockefeller Sr., Diane Kruger, Zoe Kravitz, Alexander Wang, Sam Waterson, Ted Danson, Michael Kors, Karolina Kukova, Jason Wu, Andres an Lauren Santo Domingo, Gayle King, Jenna Lyons, Arden Wohl, Jen Brill, Lauren Remington Platt, Rachel Roy, Olivia Palermo, Amanda Hearst, Gucci Westman, Marcus Wainwright and David Neville, Thakoon Panichgul, Arlenis Sosa, Zani Gugelmann and Angela Lindvall among many others.

The Green Auction: Bid to Save the Earth was made possible through the unprecedented collaboration between the four beneficiary organizations, Runway to Green, charitybuzz and Christie's, in addition to the support of all of the visionary leaders from the worlds of art, business, fashion, philanthropy, conservation and celebrity. Event and auction sponsors included Tiffany & Co., Delta Air Lines, NET-A-PORTER.com, La Mer, U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management, The Ionic Bulb, Rouge Tomate, Stella Artois, Patron, Betts & Scholl, Angelica Flowers and Events and MVS Photo Booth.

The Green Auction's companion online auction, powered by charitybuzz, will continue through April 7th on www.charitybuzz.com/bidtosavetheearth.  Lots in the silent auction include seven Fendi bags that were customized by 6 world renowned artists including Richard Prince, Damien Hirst, who designed two bags, Andisheh Avini, Enoc Perez, Tom Sachs, and KAWS, celebrity packages such as flying to Tokyo to meet Justin Beiber, taking a tennis lesson with John McEnroe and flying to Miami to meet Lady Gaga, once in a lifetime fashion experiences including a one hour long style consultation with André Leon Talley and Diane Von Furstenberg and Travel experiences including trips to Turks and Caicos, Bali and Belize.  The final results will be announced on April 7th after its completion. 

The evening's Runway Show was sponsored by Tiffany & Co. with event production by Van Wyck & Van Wyck.

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Images available at Patrickmcmullan.com
Visit Christie's on the web at www.christies.com

PRESS CONTACTS:

• Toby Usnik, New York +1.212.636.2680 tusnik@christies.com
• Alexandra Buxton, London +44.20.7389.2117 abuxton@christies.com
• Yvonne So, Hong Kong +852.29.78.99.19 yso@christies.com
• Megan Salt, Vogue +1.212.286.6884 megan_salt@condenast.com
• Jenny Powers, NRDC +1.212.727.4566 jpowers@nrdc.org
• Kevin Connor, Oceana +1.202.467.1910 kconnor@oceana.org
• Scott Johnson, CPC +1.212.310.6641 sjohnson@centralparknyc.org
• Kim McCabe, CI +1.703.341.2546 k.mccabe@conservation.org
• Glenda Luft +1.800.577.8809 gluft@Charitybuzz.com
• Caroline Bassett +1.212.744.0218 bassettmediarelations@gmail.com

About Christie's
Christie's, the world's leading art business had global auction and private sales in 2010 that totaled £3.3 billion/$5.0 billion. Christie's is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie's conducted the greatest auctions of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, and today remains a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie's offers over 450 sales annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewellery, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie's has 53 offices in 32 countries and 10 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai and Hong Kong. More recently, Christie's has led the market with expanded initiatives in emerging and new markets such as Russia, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, with successful sales and exhibitions in Beijing, Mumbai and Dubai.

About Runway to Green
Runway to Green is a fundraising model that brings together today's most important and relevant fashion designers to raise funds, educate and create awareness for the environment. Selected leading designers and brands are dedicating or creating an item of their choosing as part of their Fall 2011 collection for Runway to Green. The pieces will be sold worldwide through the designer's stores, online, select department and retail stores making this truly a global initiative. A percentage of proceeds from sales will go to Runway to Green, which in turn funds leading environmental organizations. (www.runwaytogreen.com)

About the Natural Resources Defense Council
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 1.3 million members and online activists. Since 1970, the NRDC's lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have been working to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City; Washington, D.C.; Los
Angeles; San Francisco; Chicago; Livingston; Montana; and Beijing. (www.nrdc.org)

About the Central Park Conservancy
The Central Park Conservancy's mission is to restore, manage, and enhance Central Park, in partnership with the public, for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The CPC is a private, not-for-profit organization, founded in 1980, that manages Central Park under a contract with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. Thanks to the generosity of many individuals, corporations, and foundations, and the City of New York, the Conservancy has invested more than $550 million to date in the park, making it a model for urban parks worldwide. The Conservancy raises more than 85 percent of Central Park's annual $37.4 million annual park-wide expense budget and is responsible for all basic care of the park. (www.centralparknyc.org)

About Conservation International
Built upon a strong foundation of science, partnership, and field demonstration, Conservation International (CI) is committed to helping societies adopt a more sustainable approach to development – one that considers and values nature at every turn. Founded in 1987, CI has some 900 employees working in more than 30 global offices and 1,000+ partners around the world.  (www.conservation.org)

About Oceana
Oceana campaigns to protect and restore the world's oceans.  Its teams of marine scientists, economists, lawyers, and advocates win specific and concrete policy changes to reduce pollution and to prevent the irreversible collapse of fish populations, marine mammals, and other sea life. Global in scope and dedicated to conservation, Oceana has campaigners based in North America, Europe, and South and Central America. More than 500,000 members and e-activists in over 150 countries have already joined Oceana. (www.oceana.org)

About charitybuzz
A leader in cause marketing, charitybuzz (www.charitybuzz.com) aligns nonprofits with international brands and celebrity icons to raise funds through innovative online auctions. Featuring pop culture experiences, VIP events, luxury travel, fine art, couture fashion and sports memorabilia, charitybuzz brings its online community of upscale, socially conscious bidders exclusive opportunities to make a difference. The company enables its bidders to truly doGOOD and liveWELL, generating millions of dollars for charities around the globe. To learn more, please visit www.charitybuzz.com, email info@charitybuzz.com, fan us on facebook at www.facebook.com/charitybuzz or follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/charitybuzz.

CHRISTIE'S STAR-STUDDED "BID TO SAVE THE EARTH" GREEN AUCTION
UNVEILED ONLINE MARCH 17

President William J. Clinton, Lady Gaga, Harrison Ford, Justin Bieber, Heidi Klum, Chevy Chase, Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Jacobs, Diane Von Furstenberg, and More Join Auction at charitybuzz.com/BidToSaveTheEarth

Gala Event in Partnership with Runway to Green to Include Debut of Designs by World's Top Designers to Benefit the Environment

London/New York/Hong Kong – March 17, 2011 – This St. Patrick's Day, Christie's, the world's leading art business, in a new collaboration with Runway to Green, will be taking green to a whole new level with the online launch of its second annual "Bid to Save the Earth" Green Auction, a momentous live event and companion online auction to raise funds and awareness for the preservation and sustainability of our planet. The online auction, powered by luxury charity auction company charitybuzz.com, will launch on March 17, bringing hundreds of once-in-a-lifetime experiences in the realms of fashion, entertainment, business, sports, luxury and travel to the fingertips of bidders around the world. Proceeds will benefit four leading environmental nonprofits - Oceana, Natural Resources Defense Council, Conservation International, and Central Park Conservancy - which collectively work at the local, national, and international scale to conserve nature for the long term well-being of people. Bidding is open through April 7 at www.charitybuzz.com/BidtoSaveTheEarth.

International celebrities, creative icons, industry leaders and conservationists have joined together to donate exclusive packages and experiences to the auction. From a style consultation with Vogue's André Leon Talley and Diane Von Furstenberg to a night backstage with Lady Gaga to a day around town with President William J. Clinton, the Green Auction is giving bidders unprecedented access to the world's leading influencers. Celebrity participants include Heidi Klum, Justin Bieber, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Jayni and Chevy Chase, Harrison Ford, President William J. Clinton, Karl Lagerfeld, Tory Burch, John McEnroe, Diane Von Furstenberg, Luanne Rice, Ralph Lauren, Carolina Herrera, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Vera Wang, Lady Gaga, André Leon Talley and many more.

Highlights of the Green Auction's companion online auction at charitybuzz.com include:

• Spend a special day with President William J. Clinton
• Take a flight with Harrison Ford in his personal aircraft, with round-trip airfare to Los Angeles, four nights at The Ritz Carlton, and commemorative keepsakes
• Fly to Paris for the full Chanel Couture Experience, including: front row tickets to Chanel's 2011 Couture Show, meet Karl Lagerfeld, take a private tour of Coco Chanel's apartment, receive a handbag and stay five nights at The Ritz-Carlton
• The ultimate Vanity Fair Oscars after-party package
• An incredible international culinary tour with world renowned Chef Alain Ducasse, with a taste of the finest gourmet foods in New York, Paris, Provence and Tuscany
• A style consultation with Vogue's André Leon Talley and Diane Von Furstenberg
• Meet Lady Gaga backstage in Miami and stay three nights at Soho House Miami
• Enjoy three nights at the beautiful Hotel Beau-Rivage Palace in Switzerland
• A one-hour tennis lesson with John McEnroe in New York City
• Meet Michael Kors and Heidi Klum on the ultimate New York Fashion Week experience, with inside access to the Project Runway fashion show finale
• Dinner with Jayni and Chevy Chase at the Lauren Berger Collection Essex House Apartment in NYC
• A three day getaway on the luxury superyacht Lady Sheridan during the Cannes Film Festival offered by the owners and Burgess Yachts.
• A day of sailing with Susan and David Rockefeller
• Meet Marc Jacobs, with two VIP tickets to his New York Fashion Week fashion show and after party
• Explore the majesty of Chilean Patagonia with SNP Patagonia Sur
• Meet Justin Bieber backstage in Tokyo, Japan, with VIP tickets to his performance
• An intimate breakfast with Tory Burch and a $1000 Gift Certificate to a Tory Burch boutique
• The ultimate Carolina Herrera bridal fashion experience: $10,000 toward a Carolina Herrera bridal gown, two tickets to her spring 2012 bridal show and meet Carolina Herrera backstage
• A week's stay for six at a private villa on Mustique in the Caribbean
• Tickets to the finale of FOX's hit show American Idol
• A day of falconing with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
• Five night stay in a one bedroom beach villa at Parrot Cay Resort in Turks and Caicos with round-trip airfare courtesy of Delta Airlines
• An unforgettable meal in the private Washington DC-area residence of Her Majesty Queen Noor, prepared by James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef Art Smith, former personal chef to Oprah Winfrey
• Ten night trip for four to experience the exceptional wildlife of Tanzania and the stunning beaches of Mozambique offered by Nomad Safaris, Vamizi Island and Journeys by Design

"Charitybuzz is thrilled to partner with Christie's for the 2011 Green Auction, a truly unmatched initiative spanning nearly every industry in a bid to save our beautiful planet, " said Coppy Holzman, CEO and co-founder of charitybuzz. "Building upon the success of last year's unprecedented collaboration, this year's online auction boasts a ‘who's who' of the world's most iconic celebrities and industry leaders."

In order to make ‘BID' as green-inclusive as possible, the online auction will carry the majority of celebrity and once-in-a lifetime experiences, so that anyone -- anywhere -- in the world has a chance to BID by logging on and pitching in. Bidders must complete a simple registration process with a valid credit card at www.charitybuzz.com to place a bid.

Additional funds will be raised at an invite-only Bid to Save the Earth live auction hosted by Seth Meyers at Christie's on March 29 in New York, in collaboration with Runway to Green. The carbon-neutral event will bring together top art collectors, philanthropists, financiers and environmentalists with the fashion community. Runway to Green will host a fashion show sponsored by Tiffany & Co. on the night of the live auction and make designer collection selections available online through NET-A-PORTER.COM, which will be the exclusive online retailer of the collection for the launch. Proceeds from the sale of the collection will also be divided among the beneficiary organizations. Event and auction sponsors include Tiffany & Co., Delta Airlines, NET-A-PORTER.com, US Trust and La Mer.

Details on how to participate in the online auction and how to donate, volunteer and act can be found at www.BidtoSavetheEarth.org. In addition to bidding in the online auction, the public is invited to make a symbolic bid for the environment by texting "gogreen" to 20222 to donate $10.00. Funds will go toward Bid to Save the Earth beneficiaries. For more information about the Bid to Save the Earth beneficiaries, please visit.www.abidtosavetheearth.org/organizations.

Images available on request and downloadable at http://bit.ly/gt6KDl
(www.christies.com)

# # #

FOLLOW THE GREEN AUCTION ON:
TWITTER at twitter.com/Bid2SaveEarth
FACEBOOK at Facebook.com/A-Bid-To-Save-The-Earth

Contacts:

• Toby Usnik, New York +1.212.636.2680 tusnik@christies.com
• Alexandra Buxton, London +44.20.7389.2117 abuxton@christies.com
• Yvonne So, Hong Kong +852.29.78.99.19 yso@christies.com
• Glenda Luft +1.800.577.8809 gluft@Charitybuzz.com
• Megan Salt, Vogue +1.212.286.6884 megan_salt@condenast.com
• Jenny Powers, NRDC +1.212.727.4566 jpowers@nrdc.org
• Kevin Connor, Oceana +1.202.467.1910 kconnor@oceana.org
• Scott Johnson, CPC +1.212.310.6641 sjohnson@centralparknyc.org
• Kim McCabe, CI +1.703.341.2546 k.mccabe@conservation.org
• Caroline Bassett +1.212.744.0218 bassettmediarelations@gmail.com
• Tenley Zinke +1.212.901.308 tenley.zinke@net-a-porter.com

About Christie's Green Auction: Bid to Save the Earth
Christie's second annual Green Auction, an invite-only live auction and runway show in collaboration with Runway to Green, will take place on March 29, 2011 in New York City. Top celebrities, industry leaders, philanthropists and conservationists from around the globe will join together to raise funds and awareness for the preservation and sustainability of our planet..A companion online auction, powered by luxury charity auction site charitybuzz.com, will feature hundreds of coveted experiences and luxury merchandise open for bidding internationally from March 17 through April 7, 2011. Proceeds from the live event and online auction will benefit four leading environmental charities: Oceana, Natural Resources Defense Council, Conservation International, and Central Park Conservancy. Green Auction event and auction sponsors include Delta Airlines, Tiffany & Co., NET-A-PORTER.com, La Mer and US Trust. Christie's inaugural Green Auction in 2010 raised more than $2 million for the earth. For more information, visit www.BidToSaveTheEarth.org.

 

For Immediate Release January 19, 2011
CHRISTIE'S ANNOUNCES THE 2011 GREEN AUCTION "A BID TO SAVE THE EARTH" AND INAUGURAL PARTNERSHIP WITH RUNWAY TO GREEN PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT LEADING ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS, INCLUDING CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL, OCEANA, NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL (NRDC), AND CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY

New York/London/Hong Kong – January 19, 2011 – Christie's International, the world's leading art business, and Runway to Green announce the second annual "Bid to Save the Earth" Green Auction.  The online auction, powered by charitybuzz.com, is open from March 17th to April 7th and the Live Event, hosted by Christie's at Rockefeller Center, will take place on March 29, 2011.  The Green Auction environmental partners include the core 2010 partners:  Oceana, Conservation International, NRDC and Central Park Conservancy, which harness their collective efforts to design local, national, and international solutions for the most urgent environmental threats confronting humanity. 

Christie's is very pleased to be partnering with Runway to Green – a pioneer in greening the fashion industry – and four of the most acclaimed NGO's in the world," said Edward Dolman, Chairman of Christie's.   By hosting the Green Auction, Christie's is taking the lead with innovative ways to raise crucial funds and awareness for the preservation of our planet, and we are happy to be a global catalyst in such a noble endeavor."

The 2011 Green Auction marks the inaugural partnership with Runway to Green (RTG).  The unprecedented collaboration between these two organizations brings together top art collectors, philanthropists, financiers, and environmentalists with the fashion community, utilizing their combined influence to raise funds and awareness for the preservation and sustainability of our planet.   "This collaboration constitutes one of the most important commitments made on behalf of the fashion industry to learn and address its impact on the environment," said Runway to Green Chairman Lorenzo Roccia.  "It uses the power and reach of the industry to deliver a global message about the relevance and necessity to be educated on our individual role and responsibility in protecting the environment."

Runway to Green will host a fashion show on the night of the live auction and make designer collection selections available online through - -Net-a-Porter-- who will be the exclusive online retailer of the collection for the launch.  Proceeds from the sale of the collection will also be divided among the beneficiary organizations.

Runway to Green's involvement in this initiative links the fashion industry to the NRDC's Clean by Design program recently launched to promote improvement in the environmental impact of the apparel sector.  The NRDC will work closely with each of the designers in the program to provide an education on the negative effects of mainstream production and on ways to be more green and efficient.    

In order to make ‘BID' as green-inclusive as possible, the online auction will carry the majority of celebrity and once-in-a lifetime experiences, so that anyone -- anywhere -- in the world has a chance to BID by logging on and pitching in.   The Bid to Save the Earth ACTIONEER Award contest invites the general public to join this movement by submitting their stories and personal initiatives, which demonstrate how they are engaging their communities, and making a positive impact on the environment.  The emphasis will be on grassroots actions of conservation, which are already set in place, have achieved measurable results, and are ongoing projects.  Entries will be submitted via www.abidtosavetheearth.org and will be accepted between February 1, 2011 and March 1, 2011. 

The March 29 event will be hosted by: François-Henri Pinault and Salma Hayek, David and Susan Rockefeller and Graydon and Anna Carter, in association with Vogue magazine.  The evening will also debut the Runway to Green collection with a fashion show co-styled by Vogue's Fashion Director, Tonne Goodman and Vogue's Contributing Editor, Tabitha Simmons .   

Susan and I are delighted to be co-chairs again this year for "Bid To Save The Earth'" said David Rockefeller, Jr.  "We all must do our part to protect the natural world for our children's children. Everyone can support the Green Auction through the Internet - a truly democratic way to stand up for Mother Earth. " 
 
We are pleased to announce that Bid to Save the Earth will be a carbon neutral event and we are working with the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation to provide the carbon offset for the event.  Please visit www.BidtoSavetheEarth.org for more information on the online and live auctions. 

In addition to bidding in the online auction, the public is invited to make a symbolic bid for the environment by texting "gogreen" to 20222 to donate $10.00.  Funds from text "gogreen" will go towards Bid to Save the Earth beneficiaries.

Those interested in sponsoring or contributing to this charitable cause may contact:
Toby Usnik at tusnik@christies.com.

Christie's will waive all fees and commissions for the auction.

# # #

FOLLOW THE GREEN AUCTION ON:
TWITTER at twitter.com/Bid2SaveEarth
FACEBOOK at Facebook.com/A-Bid-To-Save-The-Earth

Contacts:

• Toby Usnik, New York +1.212.636.2680 tusnik@christies.com
• Alexandra Buxton, London +44.20.7389.2117 abuxton@christies.com
• Yvonne So, Hong Kong +852.29.78.99.19 yso@christies.com
• Megan Salt, Vogue +1.212.286.6884 megan_salt@condenast.com
• Jenny Powers, NRDC +1.212.727.4566 jpowers@nrdc.org
• Kevin Connor, Oceana +1.202.467.1910 kconnor@oceana.org
• Scott Johnson, CPC +1.212.310.6641 sjohnson@centralparknyc.org
• Kim McCabe, CI +1.703.341.2546 k.mccabe@conservation.org
• Glenda Luft +1.800.577.8809 gluft@Charitybuzz.com
• Caroline Bassett +1.212.744.0218 bassettmediarelations@gmail.com

Images available on request
Visit Christie's on the web at www.christies.com

About Christie's

Christie's, the world's leading art business had global auction and private sales in 2009 that totaled £2.1 billion/$3.3 billion. For the first half of 2010, art sales totaled £1.7 billion/$2.57 billion.  Christie's is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie's conducted the greatest auctions of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, and today remains a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie's offers over 450 sales annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewelry, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie's has 53 offices in 32 countries and 10 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai and Hong Kong.  More recently, Christie's has led the market with expanded initiatives in emerging and new markets such as Russia, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, with successful sales and exhibitions in Beijing, Mumbai and Dubai. (www.christies.com)

About Runway to Green

Runway to Green is a fundraising model that brings together today's most important and relevant fashion designers to raise funds, educate and create awareness for the environment. Selected leading designers and brands are dedicating or creating an item of their choosing as part of their Fall 2011 collection for Runway to Green. The pieces will be sold worldwide through the designer's stores, online, select department and retail stores making this truly a global initiative. A percentage of proceeds from sales will go to Runway to Green, which in turn funds leading environmental organizations. (www.runwaytogreen.com)

About the Natural Resources Defense Council

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 1.3 million members and online activists. Since 1970, the NRDC's lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have been working to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City; Washington, D.C.; Los Angeles; San Francisco; Chicago; Livingston; Montana; and Beijing. (www.nrdc.org)

About the Central Park Conservancy

The Central Park Conservancy's mission is to restore, manage, and enhance Central Park, in partnership with the public, for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The CPC is a private, not-for-profit organization, founded in 1980, that manages Central Park under a contract with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. Thanks to the generosity of many individuals, corporations, and foundations, and the City of New York, the Conservancy has invested more than $550 million to date in the park, making it a model for urban parks worldwide. The Conservancy raises more than 85 percent of Central Park's annual $37.4 million annual park-wide expense budget and is responsible for all basic care of the park. (www.centralparknyc.org)

About Conservation International

Built upon a strong foundation of science, partnership, and field demonstration, Conservation International (CI) is committed to helping societies adopt a more sustainable approach to development – one that considers and values nature at every turn. Founded in 1987, CI has some 900 employees working in more than 30 global offices and 1,000+ partners around the world.  (www.conservation.org)

About Oceana

Oceana campaigns to protect and restore the world's oceans.  Its teams of marine scientists, economists, lawyers, and advocates win specific and concrete policy changes to reduce pollution and to prevent the irreversible collapse of fish populations, marine mammals, and other sea life. Global in scope and dedicated to conservation, Oceana has campaigners based in North America, Europe, and South and Central America. More than 500,000 members and e-activists in over 150 countries have already joined Oceana. (www.oceana.org)

About charitybuzz

A leader in cause marketing, charitybuzz (www.charitybuzz.com) aligns nonprofits with international brands and celebrity icons to raise funds through innovative online auctions. Featuring pop culture experiences, VIP events, luxury travel, fine art, couture fashion and sports memorabilia, charitybuzz brings its online community of upscale, socially conscious bidders exclusive opportunities to make a difference. The company enables its bidders to truly doGOOD and liveWELL, generating millions of dollars for charities around the globe. To learn more, please visit www.charitybuzz.com, email info@charitybuzz.com, fan us on facebook at www.facebook.com/charitybuzz or follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/charitybuzz.

# # #

In the Press

• May 4, 2010

  The Huffington Post: All That Glitters Is Green: First-Ever Christie's Green Auction

• April 22-23, 2010

  Television:

  NewsWorld-TV (CBC): Canada National
Power & Politics

  KUTV-SLC (CBS) — Salt Lake City, UT:
2News This Morning

  Al Arabiya TV (English)

  Bloomberg TV:
Street Smart With Carol Massar and Matt Miller

  MSNBC:
Andrea Mitchell Reports

  
  

  Print:

  WWD: Christie's Auction Proves Green is the New Black

  Reuters: Green Auction nets $2 million for environment

  USA Today: Wanna hang with Hugh Jackman? Green Auction offers big-ticket items

  New York Post: Earth Day bidders spend big to save the planet

  1010 WINS: Christie's 'Green Auction' Raises $1.4 Million for Four Environmental Groups

  AFP: Stars shine spotlight on the planet for Earth Day

  The Epoch Times: Christie's Holds Earth Day Auction

  The Business Insider: Christie's Auctions Off Adventures With The Rich And Famous

  WorldGolf.com: Win a golf date with Bill Clinton, help save the environment

  Paul Fraser Collectibles: Damien Hirst brings $92,000 in Christie's bid to save the Earth

  The Daily Mail: Salma Hayek lets her £3,750 show-stealing boots do the talking

  
  

  Asia:

  Malaysia.news.yahoo.com

  The-sun.on.cc

  Mingpaonews.com

  News.sina.com.hk

  Hk.news.yahoo.com

  Finance.sina.com.cn

  News.hexun.com

  Ifeng.com

  Ibtimes.com.cn

  China.org.cn

  News.china.com

  AFPbb.co.kr

  Headlines.yahoo.co.jp

  
  

  Germany:

  Focus.de

  Berliner Morgenpost

  Hamburger Abendblatt

  News Yahoo Deutschland

  Landeszeitung.de

  Nw-news

  Augsburger-Allgemeine

  Wetterauer Zeitung

  Die Presse

  Schwaebische Post

  Mitteldeutsche zeitung

  General-Anzeiger Bonn

  Rhen-Neckar Zeitung

  Muenchner Merkur

  TZ

• April 22, 2010

  The Huffington Post: Make a Bid to Save the Earth

• April 21, 2010

  Reuters India: Green Auction to mark 40th anniversary of Earth Day
  Bloomberg.com: Salma Hayek, Hirst Heart Grace Auction to Aid Green Nonprofits

• April 20, 2010

  Media Bistro: Christie's Goes Green with Earth Day Auction

• April 16, 2010

  Citybuzz: Christie’s Goes Green for Earth Day Auction April 22

• April 15, 2010

  L.A. Times: Top fashion designers donate merch and 'dream' experiences to Earth Day auction
  

• April 14, 2010

  i-D magazine: Twitter post
  Style.com: Stella Does His ‘N’ Hers
  Grub Street New York: Batali Kills a Dove for Neil Patrick Harris, Will Show You the Greenmarket
  Emirates Business 24/7: Artists and stars rally to save the planet [No link available, PDF on request]
  Green for Good: Christies's star-studded green auction unveiled online
  CSRwire: Green Auction: A Bid to Save the Earth
  NBC New York: Stella McCartney, Vera Wang, Giorgio Armani and More Auction for Earth Day

• April 11, 2010

  How to Spend It (Financial Times): Christie's launches A Bid to Save the Earth

• April 9, 2010

  NBC New York's fashion blog The Thread: Stella McCartney, Vera Wang, Giorgio Armani and More Auction for Earth Day
  Fashion Indie: Stella McCartney, Vera Wang, Missoni and Armani Team Up to Save Earth
  AOL Stylist: Stella McCartney, Giorgio Armani, and Vera Wang Donate Eco-Friendly Fashion Experiences for Earth Day Auction
  Fashionista: Don’t Want a Week With Anna? How About a Suit From Stella? A Dress From Vera?
  Green for Good: Christies's star-studded green auction unveiled online

• April 6, 2010

  The Discerning Brute: "Rape of Africa" in "A Bid to Save the Earth"

• April 8, 2010

  Und wir haben die Nachricht bei Facebok gepostet
  Tonic: Going, Going... Green!
  American Way: Earth Day Turns 40

• April 1-4, 2010

  Germany:

  Spiegel Online

  Spiegel on Twitter

  focus-online

  stern.de

  n.tv.de

  sueddeutsche.de

  deutschlandradio.de

  ostsee-zeitung.de

  antenne-bayern.de

  stylesublime - Fashion blog

  westdeutsche-zeitung.de

  münsterlandzeitung.de

  leipzigervolkszeitung.de

  kausitzerrundschau.de

  maerkischeallgemeine.de

  berliner-zeitung.de

  bz.de

  wiebadener-tagbaltt.de

  solinger-tagblatt.de

  schwarzwaelderbote.de

  nachrichten.de

  brf.de

  swp.de

  relevant.de

  dnews.de

  sz-online

  mainpost.de

  ruhrnachrichten.de

  
  

  Austria:

  Kurier.at

  vorarlbergerzeitung.de

  Die Presse.com

  suedtirolnews.it

  nachrichten.at

  
  

  Switzerland:

  Tagesschau.sf

  facts.ch

  cash.ch

  suedostschweiz.ch

  nachrichten.ch

  news.ch

• April 1, 2010

  Humanitarian News: Christie's offers celebrity auctions for Earth Day
  Greener Venues Blog: Christie's offers celebrity auctions for Earth Day

• March 31

  The Huffington Post: A Bid to Save the Earth
  WWD: Designers Pitch In for Earth Day Auction

• March 29

  The Huffington Post: Eco Fashion Pushes the Boundaries in CocoEco Magazine's Stephen Jones Nature Project

• March 28

  Independent — London: The halo effect: Who are the real philanthropists — celebrities or the megarich?

• March 25

  ID Magazine: Christie's Green Auction
  Look to the Stars: Charitybuzz Launches A Bid To Save The Earth

• March 23

  Zink Magazine: Be the Change — Christie's Auction House Reminds Us That a Little Bit Goes a Long Way.

  Meltwater News: Mingling for charity

  Some Hollywood superstars put their egos on parade to save the planet on Earth Day yesterday.

  According to Christie's Green Auction, a group of Hollywood celebrities agreed to lend their star power to raise funds for its "A Bid to Save the Earth" campaign next month.

  We think it's more the other way around; the event seems to help massage their massive egos.

  Still, we are deeply touched by Hollywood's kindness. David Duchovny is auctioning the chance to have lunch with him on the set of Californication, Hugh Jackman is auctioning off the chance to spend the day on the set of Reel Steel with him this summer, while Sigourney Weaver will let the successful bidder accompany her to a private screening of Avatar.

• March 22

  Kurv Magazine: Christie's, A Bid to Save the Earth, Rockefeller Centre, April 22 2010
  Hollywood Oubreak: Celebrities Rally for Earth Day 2010 Green Auction

• February 5

  Reuters: Red hot art going green at charity auction

• February 3, 2010

  Press Release: Christie's Announces the 2010 Inagural Green Auction