Anonymous artist "The Hat" gifts art to Waveney foodbank and sparks online auction

Artwork created by an anonymous donor has been gifted to a foodbank – and will now be auctioned to raise much-needed funds.

Volunteers at Waveney Foodbank in Brome were surprised to receive a painting from a Suffolk-based artist known only as ‘The Hat’, accompanied by a note encouraging the charity to sell the piece in order to generate funds.

The donation is one of many being made by The Hat, with charities such as Each and Home-Start receiving similar donations, along with the NHS and Banham Zoo.

This is not the first time the artist has turned benefactor, having already distributed his creations to charities around Woodbridge, including panels of art which were placed on a phone box in Butley.

According to his website, the mystery artist is described as having being born to an impoverished family and having suffered “a very unhappy early life”.

It adds that he hopes to “share his ultimate good fortune by donating some of his work to charitable organisations and individuals to do with as they wish”, with his intention being that “some help may be provided that really makes a difference to peoples’ lives”.

The act of anonymous generosity has come at a time when many charities are struggling to meet a growing need – something Matthew Scade, manager at Waveney Foodbank, emphasised.

“Need for foodbanks is up by 300 per cent due to Covid-19,” said the 49-year-old. “Thankfully, our food donation levels are still good.

“We’re quite short on certain items, like microwaveable puddings and instant mash but, overall, stock is very healthy.

“The painting is definitely the strangest donation we’ve had. The proceeds from the auction will go towards buying food. The more we raise, the more we can buy.

“I read that the artist has gifted a painting to the Tate, so it’s great that he’s sent one to us.”

Bidding for the unique piece of art ends at 7pm today and can be made via the foodbank’s Facebook page.

Waveney Foodbank, which is located on Brome industrial estate, works with agencies such as Citizens Advice, children’s centres and health visitors to ensure those in need can obtain vouchers to exchange for food. It is part of a nation-wide network of food banks supported by the Trussell Trust.

To read more about foodbanks, click here.