Cornwall Wildlife Trust are honoured to announce the upcoming auction of a remarkable collection of paintings by Valentine Stewart Paton (1925 - 2012), a founding member of the charity. Known affectionately as Pat, his stunning detailed illustrative paintings reflect a lifelong love of nature.  

The paintings were donated to Cornwall Wildlife Trust by Pat’s wife Jean Paton MBE, who together with Pat helped establish the charity in 1962. Jean is the last living founder of the Trust, and together her and Pat contributed over 22,000 wildlife sightings to various local and national wildlife recording projects. 

The collection of paintings are a beautiful reflection of Pat’s quiet dedication to the natural world. His works range from scientifically accurate illustrations of British birds to exquisite botanical studies, including those featured in Jean’s celebrated book, Magnolias in Cornish Gardens. Pat’s artistic precision and sensitivity capture Cornwall’s flora and fauna in a way that is both scientifically valuable and aesthetically uplifting. 

A spokesperson from Cornwall Wildlife Trust said: 

“We are incredibly grateful to have received these beautiful paintings. A selection will be proudly displayed at our head office, serving as a lasting tribute to Pat’s contribution to conservation in Cornwall.  

“The remainder will be auctioned by Lay’s Auctioneers, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to support our mission to create a Cornwall where nature thrives.” 

This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Cornwall’s natural and artistic heritage, while directly supporting the future of the county’s wildlife and wild places (buyer’s commission still applies). 

In-person viewing of the collection at Lay’s Penzance Auction House, Alverton Rd, Penzance TR18 4RE is encouraged, with no need to book in advance. The auctions start on 31^st October at 4pm and close on 16^th November at 4pm.  

View the collection with Lay's Auctioneers

Find out more about Valentine Paton