In 2017, Batia founded ‘Art of Wishes’, which brings together the international art community to raise funds for Make-A-Wish UK. To date, the charity has raised approximately £12 million, which has resulted in over 5,000 wishes being granted to children living with critical illnesses. The idea for the charity came about when Batia attended a Make-A-Wish event in Israel, shortly after the passing of her sister. When a young boy, who was the same age as her daughter at the time, asked for a laptop, Batia felt compelled to grant his wish. This marked a pivotal moment and Batia started to consider ways in which she might be able to harness the global community of artists, galleries and collectors she had fostered to raise money for the same impactful cause.
On a biannual basis, Art of Wishes organises a gala which marks their most important fundraising event. The highlight of the gala is a much-anticipated auction, which has historically showcased artists such as Tracey Emin, Joana Vasconcelos and Michael Landy. Accordingly, the galas are well attended by senior figures in the art world and are celebrated as unique opportunities to acquire highly sought after works, whilst giving back to society in a meaningful way. Also on a biannual basis, Art of Wishes hosts a women-only charity lunch. In previous years, this has been attended by individuals such as Samantha Cameron and Camilla Rutherford. Spearheaded by the dedicated Art of Wishes team, these events not only help raise awareness of and funds for Make-A-Wish UK, but also highlight Batia’s position as a role model for young women- especially for those looking to build a career in charitable initiatives and more broadly, the creative industries. Art of Wishes, which is today recognised as one of the most important charities in the art world, remains committed to its original mission and loyal to its core values. Further, the philanthropic project is a flagship example of one of the ways in which The Foundation seeks to bring about change and have a positive impact on the lives of children.
