The piece, titled “Solace”, will be sold at auction through Rayleigh-based auction house Stacey’s Auctioneers, with all proceeds going directly towards supporting the hospice’s specialist care for children and young people living with complex or incurable conditions.
Zara Muse, the creative persona of Alexandra Johnson, is a contemporary artist based in Essex. Known for her vibrant, textured paintings created using a palette knife and spatula, Zara’s work explores themes of nature, emotion and human connection. Her signature use of rich, contrasting colours celebrates the beauty and strength of women, evoking deep emotional resonance in her viewers.
Despite beginning her artistic journey at her kitchen table, Zara’s work is now sold worldwide, with pieces fetching up to £50,000. Earlier this year, she was featured on ITV News, which highlighted her rise to international artistic acclaim and ‘Solace’ donated to the hospice.
Zara said: “It’s an honour to support Little Havens through my art. The hospice offers compassionate care to children and families during their most difficult times. I hope that ‘Solace’ makes a huge difference to this local charity which means so much to families during the most difficult times.”
In recent years, Zara has exhibited her work at prestigious venues including Grove Gallery, Quantus Gallery, and Dorsett Hospitality Group’s flagship London hotel. She has also collaborated with organisations such as Savills Property Group, Eclectic Gallery, and Michelin-starred Chef Atul Kochhar. Her distinctive style and emotive storytelling continue to gain widespread recognition across the UK and beyond.
Wendy Hogarth, Philanthropy Manager at Havens Hospices, said: “We’re so grateful to Zara for her generosity and to Stacey’s for helping us bring this beautiful piece to auction. Every pound raised will help us continue to provide free, specialist care and support to families when they need it most.”
This special portrait will be part of a two-day sale on Tuesday 11th, and Wednesday 12th November at Stacey’s Auctioneers and Valuers. Live online bidding will be available on the-saleroom.com and easyliveauction.com. Please contact Stacey’s for more information at info@staceyauction.com
Published on 7th November 2025
