THE home of respected Newcastle artist Lola Rose will go under the hammer on Saturday – and the sale proceeds will help protect abused or neglected animals.
Ms Rose died last year, aged 89, and named the RSPCA as the primary beneficiary of her estate.
Long-time family friend Tony Mallam, 52, said the artist was extremely giving throughout her life.
He said she supported many charities including Barnardos Australia, House with No Steps and the Donkey Farm at Bishops Bridge.
“I called her aunty but she was like a mum to me,” Mr Mallam said.
“Lola had a big heart; in all my life, no one ever heard a mean word from her.”
Born in Adamstown, Ms Rose was only 14 when she began exhibiting her artwork.
By 21, she had received widespread recognition for her landscapes, still life work and portraits, winning countless awards.
She is also credited with helping establish the Newcastle Art Gallery and was a lifetime member of the Newcastle Art Society.
“She was big time in the 70s and 80s with the painting,” Mr Mallam said.
He said he was disappointed the RSPCA was being so “secretive” about the home’s history in the lead-up to the auction.
“I truly believe she should be given some acknowledgment for her philanthropy and leaving such a valuable contribution,” he said.
“There are not many people in Newcastle who leave their estate to charities.”
An RSPCA spokesman said the not-for-profit organisation had not publicised the fact that the house was Ms Rose’s because it was “careful not to exploit the generosity of its bequestors and do not allow such generosity to be used as a marketing tactic in the sale of properties’’.
“The RSPCA is the registered owner of the property and it is no secret that it is the vendor,” the spokesman said.
The spokesman said the money would contribute to RSPCA operations, including animal cruelty law enforcement, the running of animal shelters and community education programs.
LJ Hooker has described the three-bedroom home as in need of a “total renovation”.
It has high ceilings, timber floorboards and fireplaces, and is close to Hunter Stadium and the train station, the description said.
The auction will be held at noon on Saturday (November 22) at 53 Denney Street, Broadmeadow.
