A collection of 65 works of art ranging from paintings to sculptures will be sold to the highest bidders at the fifth edition of the Fine Arts Auction organised in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund.

The artworks have been donated by leading contemporary artists and a number of foreigners with Maltese connections. They vary from abstract to classic, from forms to splashes of colour and from seascapes to landscapes.

The list is peppered with well-known names such as George Apap, John Martin Borg, C.S. Lawrence, Kenneth Zammit Tabona and many more.

Speaking at the launch of the auction yesterday, President George Abela invited the public to visit it at the Palace in Valletta. It will run every day until November 20 from 10am to 4pm.

This auction will be the last one held under the patronage of Dr Abela as President of Malta. He said his presidency had striven to promote Maltese art and artists. They were given the opportunity to exhibit their works at San Anton Palace, while Maltese pieces were handed out as gifts during State visits.

This presidency also came up with the idea of a “sculpture garden” whereby artists could have their works exhibited permanently at the Verdala Palace, Dr Abela said.

The auction will take place on November 22.

A donation of €25 secures entrance and the champagne reception to follow. Booking is recommended since limited seating is available. For more information visit www.mccf.org.mt or contact The Palace, Valletta, on 2122 1221, 2123 1350 or 9987 4068.