Legendary artist's gift to frontline health workers
A famed Australian artist whose works are on show in the White House and the Vatican has donated valuable prints of his paintings to the front-line hospital staff battling COVID-19.
Croatian-born Charles Billich and his wife Christa decided they wanted to give something back as the pandemic took hold.
Croatian-born Australian artist Charles Billich has donated artworks to frontline health workers. 9News
"Sitting here is just not right," Billich told 9News.
"While other people are out there risking everything, and we are in our ivory tower and drinking wine all day."
The couple have donated hundreds of limited-edition prints of Billich's famous works to hospital staff, each valued at up to $2000.
Billich said it was a small gesture. 9News
And each print contains a personalised message to every staff member.
The four different varieties depict Billich's favourite subject – the city of Sydney.
One, in particular, has a royal connection.
The prints are valued at up to $2000. 9News
"I met the Queen and I was really surprised that she paid so much attention to the painting itself, and I was shocked when she said, 'Oh, I love your painting, Charles'," Billich said.
The legendary artist was modest about his contribution to the coronavirus fight.
"It's the least we can do," he said.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
