AN auction featuring £250,000 worth of works by the celebrated artist Robert O Lenkiewicz takes place on Monday at the Stannary Gallery, Tavistock.
Sales room manager Nigel Trevelyan has been running twice yearly sales of the late artist's paintings — every April and October — but this is the first time one will take place in Tavistock.
The auction at Robin Fenner's Stannary Gallery will feature 180 lots ranging in value from £20 to £20,000.
Nigel, a great admirer of the artist, has spent many months sourcing items for the auction.
'There are a lot of country-wide collectors. People are fascinated by him.
'The idea is for a forum for collectors to sell and acquire another painting for their collection. People like to add to their collection or sell one,' he said.
As well as the paintings that will go before the gavil the auction will also feature paper work, pamphlets, posters and associated material, including a rare black and white photographic archive.
'You cannot buy things like this in a shop. People that cannot afford major works will settle for something cheaper. Lenkiewicz was such a charismatic figure.
'He was one of Plymouth's biggest benefactors. People fell in love with him and his work. The fascination was with the artist as well as the art.'
Nigel said it was difficult to keep sourcing material for such a specific auction.
'But at the moment with everybody reading and hearing about him there are always people that want their first Lenkiewicz and also people that want to sell.'
Viewing today (Thursday) and tomorrow 10am to 5pm, Sunday, noon to 5pm and day of sale 9am to 10.30am.