Auction of paintings: An instinct to collect

"The instinct to collect and re-assemble is fundamental. We share the habit with many other species. It is probably a primary part of the survival instinct. It is most certainly linked to the urge to create, or at least acquire, that which is valuable to us however irrational it may seem to others. In this way, choice becomes expression and lends meaning to personality and existence.
This set of little paintings celebrates two things. The first is the passing of a cold, dark, wet and extended winter, without minding too much. The second is enjoying the eccentric collection of beautiful shells, shards and twigs that have gone into making the A la Ronde nest. I hope that you will be moved to buy one of my pictures and thus support the fabric of A la Ronde for future generations to enjoy." Mick Abbott May 2013

Mick Abbott is a full time artist, dividing his time between Cambridge, Brittany and New York. He was an art teacher at Comberton Village College, Cambridge for 22 years and loved it. In recent years Mick has been Artist in Residence at several National Trust properties, including Newark Park and Hanbury Hall, and in 2013 is delighted to be associated with A la Ronde. Mick's new paintings have been in- spired by items in the collections at A la Ronde and he is generously donating the proceeds of the sale of his work to the property to aid the continued funding of conservation projects.
www.mickabbottartist.com

We hope friends and visitors old and new will enjoy this unique opportunity to see both the paintings and this very remarkable house. The art auction will take place on Tueday 25 June 7.00—8.00pm (viewing from 6pm) under the professional direction of auctioneer Piers Motley. Mick Abbott will be there to talk to visitors about his work. Please contact A la Ronde to reserve a place at the auction. Tel 01395 265514 or email alaronde@nationaltrust.org.uk

You can find out much more about A la Ronde, including the
stories that inspired the paintings, by visiting our website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/alaronde