Art group hopes to save iconic HQ

The old carriage works is a landmark of the Stokes Croft area of Bristol

Art lovers are being given the chance to buy the work of some of Bristol's best artists in a bid to help save one of the city's biggest landmarks.

Members of Bristol's biggest art collective Jamaica Street Artists hope the auction will raise funds towards the purchase of their iconic HQ.

The Grade II listed building has been at the heart of the city's flourishing creative scene for the last 25 years.

The highly collectable items will be up for sale on 3 December 2009.

The old carriage works is a landmark of the Stokes Croft area of Bristol and with 43 artists currently in residence it is home to one of the largest artist-led studios outside of London.

Jamaica Street Artists are a collective of illustrators, fine artists and film makers who have made a name for themselves as individuals and as a group.

Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery has agreed to host a month-long preview exhibition starting on 6 November.

The auction on the evening of December 3 will be hosted by BBC presenter and collectables expert Jamie Breese.

'Cultural future'

Andrew Hood from Jamaica Street Artists (JSA) said: "This is an opportunity for JSA to build on their successes and contribute to Bristol's creative and cultural future.

"We believe that if Jamaica Street Artist's studios become a permanent artistic hub in the centre of Bristol it would continue to enhance the atmosphere and well-being of this part of the city, and Bristol as a whole."

Councillor Simon Cook, Bristol's deputy leader, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for museum visitors to see contemporary art by local artists and have the chance to buy it at auction.

"It also reflects the museum's desire to work more closely with artists, providing space and behind-the-scenes support for those involved in Bristol's creative industries."

JSA aim to maintain the studios as an affordable workspace and for artists, to provide community and exhibition space and to offer a programme of art-based workshops along with an art shop, bookshop and cafe.