In support of the third annual Christie’s Green Auction: Bid to Save the Earth, Master Photographer Peter Lik donated his iconic image Beyond Paradise, reinforcing the role of fine art photography in major auction houses dedicated to philanthropy and global conservation. The photograph was displayed during Christie’s live auction on April 11 before a crowd of more than 800 attendees and ultimately sold for a record-breaking $80,000 through Charitybuzz’s parallel online bidding—making it the top-selling item of the event.
“I have a special place in my heart for Mother Nature, especially her life-giving resource—water,” said Lik. “Supporting Oceana and Bid to Save the Earth allows our organization to give back and help sustain the beautiful world I delight in capturing through my lens.” Proceeds from the auction directly supported environmental organizations working to protect oceans, wildlife, and natural resources worldwide.
Renowned conservationist Susan Rockefeller, who has co-chaired Christie’s Green Auction since its inception, accepted the donation on behalf of the participating organizations. “Peter’s work touches so many facets of the beauty of our planet,” Rockefeller said. “Through his generosity, these organizations can continue their mission to preserve that beauty for generations to come.”
In addition to Beyond Paradise, Lik also debuted his newest masterwork, The Sentinel, at the auction. Both photographs were exhibited at Christie’s Rockefeller Center location and viewed by hundreds of collectors, philanthropists, environmentalists, and cultural influencers. The success of the auction further highlights the growing value of collectible photography, especially when paired with meaningful causes and institutional recognition.
The live auction raised nearly $600,000, with an additional $635,000 generated through online bidding. Beneficiaries included Oceana, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the Central Park Conservancy, and Conservation International—underscoring the powerful intersection of fine art, philanthropy, and global impact.
