Sir Daniel Winn's Incredible Art Donations Generate $70,000 for Charity at Open Hearts Gala

Sir Daniel Winn's Art Donations Shine at Open Hearts Gala

On April 18, 2026, the picturesque oceanfront estate of actress Jane Seymour became the backdrop for a remarkable charity event: the 16th Annual Open Hearts, Healing Arts Gala. This year, the contributions of contemporary artist and philanthropist Sir Daniel Winn stole the limelight, as his donated artworks raised an impressive total of $70,000 during the live auction, demonstrating the profound impact of art in supporting community initiatives.

A Night to Remember

The auction featured two standout pieces from Sir Daniel Winn: a captivating bronze-and-lucite sculpture titled "Metamorph," which fetched $55,000, and an original oil painting on a Louis XIII Cognac coffret that sold for $15,000. The proceeds from these sales will be directed towards the Open Hearts Foundation, which provides essential grants to nonprofit organizations dedicated to assisting children, caregivers, and communities in adversity.

With added contributions from Winn's sponsored table, the total charitable giving associated with his presence exceeded $100,000 for the evening. The gala contributed to an outstanding overall fundraising effort, netting over $600,000 across its diverse programming throughout the weekend.

Inspiration and Impact

The event, embellished with tales of resilience and hope, featured highlights such as a Jubilee Celebration honoring Seymour's illustrious career in film, stage, and painting. Additionally, attendees were treated to a sneak preview of the trailer for Winn's upcoming autobiographical film, "Chrysalis," which chronicles his poignant journey from being a war refugee in Vietnam in 1975 to finding success in the United States. The film, directed by J. Robert Schulz and featuring seasoned actress Kieu Chinh, is set to screen at the Cannes Marché du Film this May, underscoring themes of loss, transformation, and the pivotal individuals who helped him navigate his path.

"Jane has been a dear friend for years, and what she's built with Open Hearts is the real thing. These children get handed a chance – the same kind of chance strangers once gave me," shared Winn, reflecting on his motivations to give back to the community that nurtured his growth.

The evening also celebrated the vital contributions of two partners from the Foundation: Andrea and Stephen Ingle, who represent Creative Kids in El Paso, Texas, and Laurie Meadoff of the CityKids Foundation in New York City. Jane Seymour praised Winn's remarkable story and commitment to philanthropy, noting how it embodies the spirit of the Open Hearts philosophy. "Daniel arrived in this country with nothing and has spent his life living with an open heart and using his talents to give back to others. His participation and donation of art are the very essence of this foundation's values," she stated.

Additional Art Contributions

The gala also included a silent auction featuring artworks from other talented artists, including an enchanting oil on canvas called "Enchanted," created by TAO, one of Winn's mentees.

About Sir Daniel Winn

Known for his unique artistic vision, Sir Daniel K. Winn is a Vietnamese-American artist, curator, philanthropist, and founder of the contemporary art movement known as "Existential Surrealism," which leverages surrealist techniques to explore human existence. After fleeing Vietnam, Winn shifted his focus from medicine to art, eventually establishing Winn Slavin Fine Art in Beverly Hills. Recognized for his philanthropic efforts, he was knighted in 2018 by the Princely House of Schaumburg-Lippe-Nachod. His upcoming film, "Chrysalis," is a personal testament to his artistic journey and commitment to social change. More information about his work can be found at winnslavin.com.

About the Open Hearts Foundation

Founded in 2010 by Jane Seymour, the Open Hearts Foundation empowers those who turn adversity into opportunity. Grounded in compassion, resilience, and actionable support, the organization engages with and funds nonprofits that provide vital services to various communities. With a particular focus on the arts and mental health initiatives, the Foundation has disbursed over $1.9 million in grants to date, supporting a network committed to healing and well-being. For more details, visit openheartsfoundation.org.