LONDON.- Two powerful images by David Hockney RA, (b 1937), Britain’s best known and most admired living artist, lead Bonhams next sale of Modern British and Irish art on May 28 in New Bond Street. Neither have ever been on the market before as they were given by the artist to the current owner.

The first painting, titled, ‘Room with a View’, is a boldly coloured work, an oil on canvas, estimated to sell for £150,000 to £200,000. It depicts Bridlington, located in Hockney’s home county of Yorkshire, where he retains a home and studio.

The second Hockney picture is altogether different, more abstract and mysterious, appropriately enough, as the image is titled ‘Tyger’. It is estimated to sell for £40,000-60,000.

Penny Day, Bonhams Director of Modern British and Irish art, says: “We are delighted to be offering two significant paintings by such an important British name. Both works are of contrasting date and style, presenting an exciting opportunity for collectors”.

Hockney’s current exhibition of prints, at the Dulwich Gallery, is receiving rave reviews from the critics. His artistic stature continues to grow as critics agree that he is one of the most versatile artists this country has seen, a master of the line.

Born in Bradford on July 9, 1937, Hockney returned to Britain after many years in California and is now based in Yorkshire again. He is considered one of the most influential British artists of the 20th century. Currently he is using the latest communication technology to create images that will doubtless come to define this period of his creative output.