A collection of New Zealand art, which will go under the hammer at Millbrook Resort tonight, has attracted attention from throughout the country and overseas.
In the past fortnight some of the country's most well-loved artists have joined those already donating artworks to the unique Art with Heart auction, being held in the Millhouse Conference Centre from 6.30pm.
Pieces from Melvin (known as Pat) Day (through Murray and Clare Doyle), Todd Couper (through Toi o Tahuna), Kelvin Mann, Mark Hill and Annie Boyd are included in the auction, along with pieces already donated by Garrick Tremain, Jane Pestell-Litton, Peter Beadle, Russell McLean, Max Gimblett, Gretchen Albrecht, Dick Frizell (through Toi o Tahuna), Shane Woolridge, Gilbert and George (through Lee Fletcher), Ernie Maluschnig, Rachael Errington, Jackie Ranken and Mike Langford, Christine Hill, Alan Waters and Dan Kelly.
Art with Heart organiser and Arrowtown artist Ed Cruikshank said some real gems and very special pieces were among the collection which experts estimated to be "well in excess of their initial estimate".
"Interest has been huge from both artists and buyers.
"Both Shane Woolridge and myself have custom-built our pieces for the cause and those pieces refer specifically to the earthquake," he said.
Pat Day's piece was very significant, being from 1988.
"The response has been quite staggering. The auction is a great example of how people can carry on with their normal lives and continue giving to the people of Christchurch."
Pieces were expected to sell from $500 up to $30,000, with organisers hoping to raise a total of $100,000.
Anyone is welcome to attend the auction or place phone bids, with information on individual pieces available.
Viewing is from 5.30pm, "canapes and bubbles" being served from 6pm with the auction to follow at 6.30pm.
David Murray, of Bayley's Queenstown, is the auctioneer.
Born and raised in Christchurch with family still in the area, Mr Murray was deeply connected to the Christchurch community.
All proceeds raised will go to the Red Cross New Zealand 2011 Earthquake Appeal.
• For information about the works and artists visit www.millbrook.co.nz
