Bermuda's biggest art auction -- to be held this Valentine's Day -- will feature one of Bermudian artist Robert Basset's largest paintings.

At a press conference held earlier this week at the Regal Art Gallery, the internationally acclaimed artist announced he would donate an original creation to the Family Resource Network Charitable Trust.

The six-foot by 10-foot acrylic canvas "Here Come The Gombeys'' took three weeks to complete and depicts Gombeys in their natural environment -- a neighbourhood setting with dancers and drummers.

"The Gombeys clearly represent a strong part of Bermuda culture and the painting stands a good chance of increasing in value as the Gombey tradition remains alive and continues to live,'' said Mr. Basset.

The artwork was commissioned with the sole purpose of contributing it to the Family Resource Network's silent art auction at the Elbow Beach Hotel.

The painting has an estimated value of $75,000 and Mr. Basset is hoping some charity-minded sponsor will acquire the work.

"We want to make them (international companies) aware that we do have art here on the Island that is credible and that certainly can used for the purpose of beautifying and making their environments conducive to doing good business.'' Mr. Bassett would like to see the painting hung in the foyer of a large office building such as the Bermuda International Airport or bought by a company display in an accessible public place.

David Ezekiel, Chairman of the Family Resource Centre and Chairman of the International Companies Division of the Chamber of Commerce was on hand for the painting's unveiling and added: "People don't know the extent to which local art has risen.'' The Family Resource Network counsels children and their parents and empowers them to live abuse-free lives.

Here come the Gombeys: Bermudian artist Robert Basset and David Ezekiel of the Family Resource Network view the six-foot by ten-foot acrylic on canvas "Here come the Gombeys'', which will be auctioned off on February 14. The art auction will also feature works by other local artists.