Internationally renowned contemporary artist Ai Weiwei has donated a limited-edition artwork to help raise critical funds toward English PEN’s fight for free expression.
Cup and Plate with Motif was sold at Christie’s auction ‘Post-war to Present’ in July 2026. The proceeds raised from the sale will go directly towards English PEN’s work campaigning for writers and artists facing pressure, silencing or exclusion.
“Weiwei is well-known for his vocal support of freedom of expression in the face of authoritarianism; and I couldn’t think of a more appropriate artist to work with. We are deeply grateful for his generosity and support.” — English PEN Director, Daniel Gorman
We also extend our thanks to the team at Christie’s, previous partners on English PEN’s landmark auction First Editions, Second Thoughts. 100% of the hammer price less auction costs for this lot will benefit English PEN.