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Home Personal giving Case studies A gift inspired by connection and compassion 
19 March 2026

A gift inspired by connection and compassion

Charities Aid Foundation Charities Aid Foundation Personal giving

Every CAF story starts somewhere.

For one client, a treasured Barbara Hepworth sculpture became the starting point for lasting social impact – supporting community organisations working with people from refugee backgrounds, storytelling through film and environmental causes.

A long-standing CAF client was the owner of Orpheus, a rare limited-edition sculpture by celebrated British artist Barbara Hepworth. Beyond its artistic and financial value, the piece held deep personal and sentimental significance.

After hosting people from refugee backgrounds, the client was profoundly moved by their experiences. This encounter sparked a desire to do more to support organisations helping refugees and migrants rebuild their lives. That moment of connection became the catalyst for transforming a treasured artwork into meaningful social impact.

Turning intention into impact

Initially, the client considered selling the sculpture privately through an auction house and donating the proceeds. However, acting on the advice of a wealth adviser, it became clear that selling the artwork privately could result in significant tax liabilities. These liabilities could substantially reduce the funds available for charitable giving. As a result, the client was advised gifting the artwork to a charity prior to sale would be a more tax-efficient approach.

How CAF helped

The client approached CAF to explore whether the Orpheus could be accepted as a charitable gift. Working closely with the client’s adviser, the auction house and CAF’s in-house legal team, we were able to accept the sculpture as a non-standard charitable donation ahead of the auction. Accepting the gift before the auction was key to maximising the value available for philanthropy while mitigating tax liabilities.

While the sale itself was handled independently by the auction house, the sculpture achieved a price well above the initial valuation.

Funding community-led support

The proceeds from the sale were directed to community organisations working with people from refugee backgrounds. These organisations offer practical support, promote inclusion, and help individuals and families rebuild their lives after displacement.

A majority of the proceeds were also used to produce a film project which challenges negative narratives around migrant communities and amplifies stories of belonging and resilience.

In addition, a portion of the funds was allocated to environmental causes, reflecting the donor’s wider commitment to sustainable, community-driven impact.

Through this approach, a cherished family heirloom was transformed into a tangible resource to create social impact. Looking back on the experience, the client shared:

“Who would’ve thought that Babs (Barbara Hepworth) could bring so much empowerment!”

Why this story matters

This case shows how non-cash assets can unlock significant charitable impact. With the right guidance, even complex gifts can be structured to maximise value, reduce tax exposure and create meaningful, lasting change.

CAF continues to support donors who want to think creatively about their giving, ensuring their generosity has the greatest possible reach and effect.

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