Venus Williams involved in art auction to help preserve Nina Simone's childhood home

Former World No.1 Venus Williams has joined forces with other black entrepreneurs in an attempt to save the childhood home of Nina Simone, legendary American songwriter and vocal civil rights activist.

An auction has been organized to preserve the national treasure, and is set to take place from May 12 – May 22, 2023. It will feature 11 contemporary artworks with proceeds going to the Nina Simone Childhood Home preservation project.

Williams, who is co-curator alongside artist Adam Pendleton, expressed her joy at being involved in the project.

I’m so excited to be a part of this expansive project centering on the life and legacy of Nina Simone, who has been a huge inspiration for so many,” Williams said. "Each of the artists Adam and I have selected for the auction has a unique, powerful voice, and we’ve been moved by their generosity and enthusiasm for this important cause.”

Artists participating in the auction include Cecily Brown, Gallagher, Johnson, Robert Longo, Mehretu, Pendleton, Martin Puryear, Sarah Sze, Mary Weatherford, Stanley Whitney, and Anicka Yi. Sotheby’s will host online bidding for the auction from May 12-22, while the artworks are on display at Pace’s New York gallery from May 12–20.