Audi donates Damian Hirst art car to Sir Elton John's charity ball

Sir Elton John's annual charity ball has been brightened up this year by a unique auction item – an Audi A1 art car produced by superstar artist, Damien Hirst.

The special supermini, which is fully driveable and road legal, was created using Hirst's renowned spin painting technique at his studio in Gloucestershire. The A1 will be auctioned off with a 6ft diameter canvas that the British artist completed at the same time.

"This is one of the most exciting auction items we have ever had for White Tie" said Elton John. Audi has supported the star's AIDS charity for the past eight years, but the new art car is like to be their most significant donation as Hirst remains one of the world's most sought after contemporary artists and the A1 won't reach the UK until November.

The star-studded White Tie and Tiara Ball takes place on Thursday.