An acclaimed Derbyshire landscape artist is auctioning 20 of his paintings in a bid to raise thousands of pounds to help cancer sufferers.
James Preston, whose work appears in private collections around the world including Tokyo, Zurich, Italy and Spain, has decided to part with a select collection of works to raise money for the Macmillan Cancer Support charity.
Money raised will not only support the nurses who offer crucial care to cancer sufferers and their families when they need it most, it will honour one of James’ friends who lost his life to cancer aged only 19.
Faye Dodsley, art valuer at Hansons Auctioneers, said: “Being a creative soul, James has for many years played lead guitar in various rock bands, both professionally and just for fun. Sadly, one of his roadies died at a very young age of this devastating disease some years ago. This inspired James, like many others, to support this important charity.
“He is delighted to offer these selected artworks for others to enjoy, safe in the knowledge that all proceeds will aid a particularly good cause. Together, the paintings could sell for around £3,500.
“His work is inspired by Derbyshire but the oil paintings on offer also include coastal scenes, a lazy river, lily pads, a woodland scene with a squirrel and Christmas cake. All his paintings have an ethereal, peaceful and soothing quality and would suit any home.
“With estimates range from as little as £40-£100, people can potentially buy an original piece of artwork at a very affordable price – and support Macmillan Cancer Research.”
The paintings will be offered in Hansons Auctioneers’ January 12 Antiques and Collectors Auction at Bishton Hall with estimates ranging from £40-£100 for lot 873, a wistful depiction of sailing boats at Derbyshire’s Swarkestone Reservoir, to £400-£500 for lot 863, lily pads.
James Preston was born in Birmingham but moved to the Derbyshire village of Duffield at the age of 16. His went on to study the History of Art at Derby College of Art. James says he is inspired by the countryside that surrounds him and aims to capture its beauty in each painting.
James Preston paintings can be viewed online at Hansons’ catalogue/bidding platform: www.hansonslive.co.uk or at www.the-saleroom.com.
