THE collections left by one of the West Somerset art world’s most admired and respected figures are expected to generate massive interest, and a wave of nostalgic memories, when they go under an auctioneer’s hammer at the end of the month.

Nick Cotton, artist, historian, and antiques expert with an international reputation, who died suddenly in December, 2023, at the age of 74, is still warmly remembered in Watchet, his home for 60 years and where he ran his successful Lynda Cotton Gallery.

“My father gave his life to Watchet and his people,” his daughter Jennie Jukes said. “This little town was his whole world.”

Crewkerne auctioneers Lawrences will be selling online a collection of works that featured in the Lynda Cotton Gallery as examples of 20th century modern art and design and ‘a tribute to a man whose passion for art, local history and his home town has left an indelible mark on the community’.

For more than four decades, Nick and Lynda ran the gallery on Swain Street, Watchet.

Even after their separation 10 years ago, he chose to keep the gallery name as a tribute to the life and work they had built together.

The gallery became a cornerstone of the local cultural scene, hosting exhibitions by distinguished artists such as Hans Schwarz, Alex Hollweg, photographer James Date, Angus Sterling, and John Wealthy.

Despite championing many others, Nick rarely placed himself in the spotlight.

He was a self-taught artist who preferred to quietly paint at his kitchen table, sketchbook in hand, while sharing conversation and tea with his family.

In 2023, Jennie and her husband Ian curated a landmark exhibition of his work, the first time his art had truly been celebrated in its own right.

His son Olly also shared in supporting the legacy of his father’s life and work.

The response was extraordinary, 101 of 103 works were sold, with the majority finding homes in Watchet.

Alongside his art, Nick was also a respected and prolific historian and writer, producing numerous feature articles for newspapers and magazines including the Free Press and Exmoor Magazine, often combining them with his own elegant illustrations to bring the area’s rich past to life.

A friend remembered: “His knowledge, generosity, and eye for beauty cemented his reputation not only as an art and antiques expert but as a cherished figure in the community.”

A Lawrences spokesperson said: “The sale will feature a carefully chosen selection of works offering collectors and admirers a rare opportunity to acquire pieces that carry both artistic and local historical significance.

"It is a privilege to present these works in our sale.

“They radiate the same warmth, care, and passion that Nick gave to his community throughout his life.

“The online sale will open at the end of November and ends on December 7 and Lawrences is proud to share this opportunity to honour the life and creativity of a man who gave so much to others through his art.”