Fine Art, Travel, Wildlife, and Philanthropy: A Memorable VIP Experience Aboard the Celebrity Silhouette

Recently, a group of Park West VIP collectors completed an exceptional international art-collecting voyage aboard the Celebrity Silhouette. The journey, which set sail from Athens, explored the stunning Greek Islands and Turkey, offering an immersive experience for nearly 50 collectors, guest artists, and Park West VIP staff.

The event was hosted by seasoned VIP auctioneer Jordan Sitter, who remarked, “This was one of my favorite VIP trips of the year. The itinerary was amazing, the guest artists were fantastic, and both the collection and collectors couldn’t have been better.”

A standout highlight of the trip was a rare public appearance by acclaimed African wildlife artist Andrew Bone. Due to the extensive time it takes to create his photorealistic paintings and the weeks of trekking required to capture his wildlife subjects, Bone participates in only two to three shows each year. This trip offered a unique opportunity for collectors to meet the artist in person.

After one of the most successful auctions of his career, Bone surprised attendees with an offer to give a presentation about his conservation efforts in Africa. As a dedicated conservationist, Bone uses his art to raise awareness about Africa’s magnificent wildlife and the challenges these species face. His organization, the Forever Wild Foundation, is deeply involved in protecting endangered animals, fighting poaching, and preventing the eradication of Africa’s wildlife.

Thanks to the quick collaboration of the Celebrity cruise team, Sitter arranged an impromptu enrichment lecture, which drew a captivated audience. Bone’s passionate presentation educated collectors on the incredible work of his foundation and the urgent need to protect Africa’s most famous species. Many collectors were inspired to contribute to the cause, much to Bone’s delight.

Reflecting on the experience, Bone shared, “On my recent VIP cruise with Park West Gallery, they once again gave me the opportunity to speak about my charity, the Forever Wild Foundation. After the auction, I presented to a full room, and the resulting support was overwhelming. The foundation is stronger today thanks to the enthusiasm of Park West’s collectors.”

As part of the fundraising effort, a painting of a cheetah, one of the species the foundation is working to protect and relocate, was auctioned at Bone’s request. After intense bidding from over ten collectors, the artwork sold for $18,000, with 100% of the proceeds going to the Forever Wild Foundation. The cheetah, which will soon serve as the foundation’s official logo, symbolizes the critical work being done to preserve this species and its bloodlines.

In addition to the auction, many collectors contributed directly to the foundation, with some even committing to multi-year donations. Bone expressed his gratitude, saying, “My heartfelt thanks go out to Jordan, Park West, and the collectors for their professionalism and integrity in supporting the foundation. Just this one day’s events will help save multiple cheetahs.”

This unique blending of fine art, travel, and philanthropy created an unforgettable experience, where art not only connected collectors with extraordinary pieces but also contributed to preserving the world’s wildlife for future generations.