Western New Yorkers looking for a chance to own a piece of art history while supporting a critical cause now have a unique opportunity. A high-stakes raffle based in France is offering an original masterpiece by Pablo Picasso for the price of a $117 ticket (approximately 100 euros), with all proceeds dedicated to Alzheimer’s research.
This initiative, titled “1 Picasso for 100 euros,” bridges the world of high-end art collecting with global philanthropy. The drawing is set to take place at the renowned Christie’s auction house in Paris. For the Western New York community, where local health initiatives and community support are pillars of our regional identity, this international event highlights a creative approach to funding medical breakthroughs.
The Impact: Supporting Alzheimer’s Research
The raffle is more than just a game of chance; it is a major fundraiser for the Alzheimer Research Foundation. Established in 2004, the foundation has become a premier private financier of Alzheimer-related medical research. By participating, ticket holders contribute directly to the search for a cure for a disease that affects millions of families worldwide, including many throughout the Buffalo and Niagara regions.
The following table outlines the key details of the current raffle and its charitable goals:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Artwork | “Tête de Femme” (1941) by Pablo Picasso |
| Ticket Price | $117 (100 Euros) |
| Ticket Cap | 120,000 tickets total |
| Primary Beneficiary | Alzheimer Research Foundation |
| Estimated Value | Over $1 million |
A Local Connection: From Pennsylvania to Paris
While the draw takes place across the Atlantic, the raffle has a history of changing lives right here in the Northeast. In 2013, the inaugural raffle saw a fire-sprinkler worker from neighboring Pennsylvania win “Man in the Opera Hat,” a 1914 Cubist work. This connection underscores the accessibility of the event—bringing world-class art out of private vaults and into the hands of everyday citizens.
In 2020, a second Picasso, “Nature Morte” (Still Life), was won by an accountant in Italy. Art collector David Nahmad, who provided the painting for that raffle, noted that Picasso was a man of great generosity who believed his work should be appreciated by everyone, not just the ultra-wealthy. This philosophy aligns with the mission of Lake Erie Times to provide engaging and accessible stories to our diverse audience.
The Masterpiece: “Tête de Femme”
The painting currently up for grabs, “Tête de Femme” (Head of a Woman), is a gouache on paper created by Picasso in 1941. Provided by the international Opera Gallery, the piece is valued at over $1 million. Before the winner is announced, the painting will be on display at Christie’s galleries in Paris, allowing the public to view the intricate detail of the master’s work.
Global Philanthropy Through Art
The fundraising model has proven highly effective. Previous raffles have raised over $11 million, which was used to fund cultural projects in Lebanon and water hygiene programs in Africa. This year, if all 120,000 tickets are sold, the raffle could generate upwards of $14 million. After the Opera Gallery is reimbursed for the acquisition of the painting, the remaining millions will be funneled into Alzheimer’s research.
For those interested in the intersection of international business and philanthropy, or for those simply hoping to own a piece of history, more information is available on the official raffle website. As we continue to cover major regional and global events at Lake Erie Times, we remain committed to bringing you stories that foster informed dialogue and strengthen community connections.
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