Asifa-Hollywood brings The Art of Animation to Sotheby's with Animaid Fundraising Auction

The initiative aims to provide critical funds to artists and professionals working within the animation industry, many of whom have lost their homes or faced major displacement due to the crisis. The campaign kicked off at the 2025 ASIFA-Hollywood 52nd Annual Annie Awards. Now, AnimAID will begin its next chapter, culminating in an online auction in part with Sotheby’s, set to take place in April 2025.

The auction will feature a treasure trove of rare and one-of-a-kind pieces of animation history tied to some of the most beloved films and television classics, including 1937’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, The Simpsons, Inside Out, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, The Wild Robot, Beauty and the Beast, Avatar and more. The lots will include original drawings, paintings, animation cels, signed posters, maquette figures and unique experiences – all donated by leading studios — including The Walt Disney Company, Warner Brothers, DreamWorks Animation, Sony Pictures Animation, and Paramount, among others — who, inspired by this remarkable cause, have come together to curate an exceptional selection of prized artworks and exclusive experiences from the world of animation. Highlights of the exhibition will span 90 years of animation history, including a black-and-white story sketch from Tortoise and the Hare (1935) alongside a color pencil drawing of Woody and Buzz Lightyear (2025), created specifically to benefit AnimAID, commemorating the 30th anniversary of Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story release.

Many of these rare, original pieces have never been seen by the public. They will be on display at Sotheby’s New York galleries from April 11–15, with the auction opening for bidding online from April 23–30. Proceeds will directly benefit over 70 animation families who have been affected by the disaster. In addition, ASIFA-Hollywood will host a series of events aimed at raising funds and fostering community support for animation artists and professionals in need.

“AnimAID is a powerful reminder of the unity and compassion that define our animation community. As we face the devastating aftermath of the wildfires, this initiative allows us to come together not only to provide essential relief, but also to honor the artists and professionals who have given so much to the world of animation. We are deeply grateful for the generous support from all our collaborators, and we are thrilled to share these iconic pieces of animation history with the public.”

Aubry Mintz, AnimAID & ASIFA-Hollywood Executive Director

“We are honored to partner with ASIFA-Hollywood and numerous animation studios in support of AnimAID. This auction is not only an opportunity to celebrate the rich history of animation but also to contribute to a cause that’s incredibly impactful for the animation community. The pieces we are offering - many of which have never been seen by the public before - capture the artistry and creativity that have shaped animation for generations and created cherished childhood memories for so many of us. We are excited to share these extraordinary works with collectors and fans, knowing that every bid will directly support animation artists and professionals who are facing such challenging times.”

Ian Ferreyra de Bone, Sotheby’s Managing Director, Luxury Division

Main Image: Cel from Here’s to You, Mickey Mouse! (Walt Disney Animation Studios)