Lady Gaga turned artist’s model to raise money for her new charity, the Born This Way Foundation. The artist? None other than legendary singer Tony Bennett. This isn’t the first artistic collaboration for the two. They performed a duet of the classic “Lady Is a Tramp” on Bennett’s recently released album “Duets II.”
Bennett has his own charity, Exploring the Arts, an organization devoted to “strengthen(ing) the role of the arts in public high school education,” according to eBay giving. His charcoal sketch of a completely nude Gaga stretched out on her left side and smoking a cigarette is being auctioned on eBay Celebrities to raise money for Exploring the Arts.
The drawing has also been published in the January 2012 issue of “Vanity Fair,” along with a cover photo by famed celebrity photographer Annie Leibovitz. A limited edition print of the cover art, showing Lady Gaga fully clothed in a voluminous red skirt, midriff-baring top and statement-making giant folded hat, is also available on eBay. The 16×20-inch print is one of only 25 produced. Proceeds benefit the Born This Way Foundation.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the Bennett sketch had attracted a bid of only $6,766, falling short of its reserve price. The Leibovitz print was going for $1,358. These are only two of the items Bennett and Gaga are auctioning off to support their charities. Other lots include a signed copy of Bennett’s book, “Tony Bennett in the Studio: A Life in Art and Music” ($100), a limited edition of a Tony Bennett print, “Gondola, Venice” ($710), and several pieces of jewelry worn by Lady Gaga ($860-$1000).
There’s still plenty of time for fans to bid, if they qualify. All auctions end on Dec. 19. If you want to bid more than $1,000 on any of these items, you have to be “pre approved” by auction manager Kompolt.
Lady Gaga has spoken out in favor of stricter legislation to prevent bullying, tweeting, “Bullying must become illegal…This must end,” in response to the suicide of 14-year-old Jamey Rodemeyer. Earlier this month, she visited the White House to discuss the problem with members of the Office of Public Engagement.
Her charity, the Born This Way Foundation, seeks to support youth by promoting acceptance and individuality, according to its website.
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