A quarter of a century after its first acquisition, Cambridge’s hub of female creative talent is giving the general public a chance to adorn their own walls with an original creation.

Officially recognised as the most significant compilation of women’s art in Europe, New Hall Art Collection has orchestrated an auction of its artists’ original creations to mark its 25th birthday.

Small pieces have been donated from the featured female artists, enabling average art-lovers to participate with an affordable starting bid of only £20.

The idea for New Hall Art Collection was born in 1986, when the then-College President , Dr Valerie Pearl, was inspired by the acquisition of Mary Kelly’s Exrase to establish a permanent collection of Modern and Contemporary art.

Judith Cowan, Mary Husted and Maggi Hambling were among the talented females who generously responded in overwhelming numbers to Dr. Pearl’s requests for donations.

400 works by nearly 300 artists now tile New Hall’s walls, alongside temporary exhibitions showcasing emerging female artistry.

Funds raised from the online auction will go towards the Barlow Art Fund for the long-term care and conservation of the New Hall Art Collection.

Bidding will take place until Friday 4th March through the collection’s website.