Hirst's 'Shark Mouth' raises £2 million

The biggest names in British art, design and fashion came together at the Surrealist Ball on Thursday 17 March, helping to raise £2.8 million for children.

The sale of Damien Hirst's 'Shark's Jaw with White Rose and Butterflies' (donated by Victim, Damien's charitable foundation) saw the evening's fundraising total leap by £2 million. The work is part of a series that has received widespread critical acclaim. Tracey Emin's neon light installation 'For You' sold for £80,000 and Tony Cragg's 'Mixed Feelings' went for £50,000.

Oliver Barker, Sotheby's Senior International Specialist of Contemporary Art, conducted the auction, which also included work by Jake and Dinos Chapman, Mat Collishaw, Tim Noble and Sue Webster, and Keith Tyson.

Harry Blain, Committee Chair and gallery owner, and Editor of Harper's Bazaar Lucy Yeomans hosted the event to raise vital funds for the NSPCC's therapeutic work with abused children. This includes art and play therapy and specific therapy for mothers and children who have experienced domestic violence.

Harry said, "I have been proud to play a small part in supporting the NSPCC. The protection of children as one of the most vulnerable groups in our society is paramount to all of us."

"Children who have suffered abuse and trauma are sometimes unable to articulate what has happened to them. The power of art and play therapy enables them to express their emotions in a way that feels comfortable to them. The money raised will help rebuild childhoods across the UK.

"I have been overwhelmed but not surprised by the generosity of all the artists who gave works for this auction and by the support the event has had from businesses."

Fellow host Lucy Yeomans said, "I am delighted to have co-hosted the Surrealist Ball with Harry Blain to raise money for such an incredible cause. Curating art, fashion and music for charity is something very dear to my heart, and I am proud that the Harper's Bazaar brand is associated with such a prestigious and important event."

NSPCC Chairman Mark Wood said, "We're extremely grateful to everyone who has made this event possible. Without their generosity and energy the NSPCC would not be able to continue its crucial work with children. With these funds we can provide services for the most vulnerable and high-risk children to help their recovery from abuse."

More pictures of guests can be seen on the Daily Mail website .