Phillips has announced that 14 lots in the Latin America auction will benefit FLORA ars+natura, a non-profit foundation based in Bogotá, Colombia, which deals with the myriad relationships between art and nature. FLORA’s programs have had important implications for both artistic and non-artistic circles; its team works closely with local communities, considering social, environmental, and political issues through contemporary art projects. The organization is run by José Roca, former TATE Estrellita B. Brodsky Adjunct Curator of Latin American Art and co-curator of the 27th Bienal de São Paulo, Brazil (2006), with his wife Adriana Hurtado, cultural administrator. Phillips’ auction will be held on 24 May in New York and will include a variety of works generously donated by artists, whose proceeds will support FLORA’s mission.

José Roca, Curator and Artistic Director of FLORA, said, “FLORA is honored to partner with Phillips on this important auction, which will bring international attention to our organization and raise funds to help us continue in our mission of offering residencies, exhibitions and educational programs—particularly those that support emerging artists. We admire Phillips' expertise and dedication to promoting contemporary Latin American art, and are very grateful to the talented artists who have graciously donated works to this auction. Their generosity will help provide wonderful opportunities for countless others.”

Kaeli Deane, Phillips’ Head of Sale, Latin American Art, said, “FLORA is an important organization and Phillips is delighted to have seen such tremendous support from artists across Latin America, donating artworks that are both artistically complex and visually stunning.  We are pleased to have such a breadth of material, from photographs and paintings to sculptures and installations. This portion of the sale offers something for seasoned and new collectors, alike, of all interests and backgrounds.”

FLORA was founded in 2012 as a meeting place for artists and those interested in contemporary art. Since 2016, FLORA has focused on supporting emerging artists through long-term residencies. The residencies are accompanied by a practice-based Independent Study program called Escuela FLORA, where curators, art historians, established artists and other guest speakers give seminars and studio visits to the group. They are currently giving grants to 25 artists from 13 countries, all of whom receive a space to work for an entire year, the study program, and a monthly stipend for housing, food and transportation. All of FLORA’s programs are free for the participants and the public.   The partnership between FLORA and Phillips has been further supported by Portafolia Studio, a London-based digital marketing and collaborations studio that specializes in the art market.