Renowned across Australia for her feminine motifs and candy store color palette, Sydney-based street artist Deb is taking a stilettoed stand for men across the country with ‘Man Up’, an exhibition designed to raise money and awareness for prostate cancer.
Mike Giant
The latest in a string of Deb’s charitable efforts for the Cancer Council of Australia, and prostate cancer in particular, Man Up comprises the monochromatic works of over 35 local and international male artists. Deb has ambitiously recruited an army of high profile art world benefactors, with headlining names such as Mark Bode (USA), Mike Giant (USA), Jim Houser (USA), Ben Brown (Syd), Ken Taylor (Syd). Deb has been overwhelmed and delighted by their support, saying, “All the artists have been really willing to donate work, which is amazing. Even more importantly, 100% of the sales go directly to the charity.”
Jim Houser
One of Man Up’s Australian headliners Ben Brown says, “This is a great show to be involved with. Men seldom discuss health issues amongst each other, and anything that gets the conversation started has to be good. I myself have had checks for prostate and bowel cancer owing to family histories. With a couple of young kids in my life now, it makes total sense. Deb is a legend and I am happy to get behind this initiative.“
Jack White by Ben Brown
Equally as supportive as the artists are the major sponsors of Man Up. Australia-based clothing brand Phable and Deb have collaborated on a limited series of printed t-shirts exclusive to the exhibition, with printing sponsored by Aisle6ix.
The t-shirts will be available for sale throughout the duration of the exhibition. In addition, Deb has produced six customized copies of T-world New York, which are an official collaboration and will be sold on the opening night. 100% of proceeds from the sale of the artworks, t-shirts and books will go directly to the Cancer Council of Australia to fund prostate cancer research.
Phill Blake
Man Up aims to push the grave but drastically under-represented issue of prostate cancer to the foreground of public attention by inspiring dialogue and removing the stigma that can prevent vital early detection of the disease.
Vyal One
Over the last four months, Deb’s personal commitment to the cause has raised in excess of $3000, with the artist’s fan base donating money as she has abstained from a girl’s three major vices: alcohol, chocolate and boys. Deb also continues to create a series of original drawings, which she has been donating in exchange for contributions to her prostate cancer fund. Deb expects to raise that figure significantly with sales from Man Up.
Man Up opens at aMBUSH Gallery, Waterloo, on Thursday 11 October from 6-9pm. All those in Sydney are invited to celebrate and support Deb and the Cancer Council, over complimentary ARVO beer and Sailor Jerry wine and spirits, as they continue their fight against a disease that affects men and the people who love them worldwide.
(Show continues October 12, 13 and 14 from 12pm-4pm)
