Staff and students from Coventry University's School of Art and Design have donated art work ranging from paintings, drawings, sculpture, prints, photographs and much more to auction off in order to raise money for their 2011 end of year degree show.

The auction, which takes place at The Herbert on Thursday 3 March, will give people the chance to acquire original works of art by up and coming artists.

The annual event has gained a reputation over the years as the highlight for anyone interested in supporting young artists.

Fine Art student, Bruce Fletcher, has had the task of organising this year's event. He said:

"To put on our degree show, we have to raise funds ourselves and so we rely heavily on people coming to the auction to buy our work. Some of our tutors have also donated pieces to auction off which we are extremely grateful for.

"The night itself will hopefully raise much-needed funds and who knows, in years to come; something that is purchased on the night might be worth a lot of money one day!"

The auction takes place between 7 - 9pm with a public viewing of the items taking place between 10am - 4pm and a pre-auction viewing from 5.30pm.

The auction catalogue can be found on The Herbert's webpage www.theherbert.org and clicking on the 'what's on icon' and type 'Coventry University auction' in the search box.

Bruce Fletcher added:

"The auction element adds to the exciting atmosphere but anyone not able to make it on the night can always look at the catalogue and fill in a commission bid or a telephone bid form so they don't have to miss out on getting the piece they want."

All the forms are available to download on the auction page on The Herbert website.

For more information about Coventry University, please visit their website here: www.coventry.ac.uk