LONDON.- The Ash to Art auction at Christies which saw 25 of the world’s leading international artists use remains from the fire at the Glasgow School of Art to create original works of art has raised a grand total of £706,438 including buyer’s premium with almost £570,000 going to the campaign.

The piece that brought the most money was Jenny Saville’s charcoal on canvas called “Ashes” which went for £269,000.

The Ash to Art idea was created by J. Walter Thompson London for the Glasgow School of Art.

James Whitehead, Chief Executive at J. Walter Thompson said: “This is a fantastic achievement and a truly fitting conclusion to what has been a great partnership from the beginning to the end. As a creative agency it’s very satisfying to be part of the restoration of such an iconic symbol of creativity around the world.”

Alan Horn, Director of The Mackintosh Campus Appeal, said: “The auction result was wonderful and a testament to the hard work and effort put in by all of the artists and the partners. The Trustees of the Appeal are delighted and wish to thank all of those involved and all of those who purchased the pieces at auction.”

“The Ash to Art project has been an extraordinarily apt way of raising funds towards our £32m target, and the success of this project, both financially and in profile for the Appeal has exceeded our expectations. It has been such a pleasure working with JWT London and Christie's."

The auction took place at Christies as part of its Post-War and Contemporary Art Day Sale.

Artists chosen by J. Walter Thompson London with support from The Glasgow School of Art include seven Turner Prize winners. They work in a variety of different media and together have created a distinctive body of work, reflecting the international importance and influence of the Mackintosh Building on those who studied there and further afield.