John Lennon self-portrait in Ascot auction

A rare signed John Lennon self portrait, completed in 1958 when he was a student at Liverpool College of Art, will be exhibited this weekend (15th and 16th March 2008) as a centre piece to a rock memorabilia auction, "We Will Rock Ascot".

The intriguing painting which will be sold later this year, depicts Lennon at the time when he was studying with fellow student and the Beatles first bassist, Stuart Sutcliffe. His best friend at the time and an inspiration of style and art to Lennon in the early days, the portrait's style echoes Stuart, who Lennon saw as a big brother.

According to the auction organiser Louise Cooper; "This Lennon abstract is an extremely desirable piece of modern musical art by a great master of sound. It is unique and an early insight into Lennon's versatility across many milieu".

In other Beatles news, Cooper is donating to Sense, the national deafblind charity, three hand crafted animation cells. Drawn by John Lennon with Steven Verona, the cells were used in the Beatles "I Feel Fine" song, the first ever music video. The cells will be sold by Sense at a later date.

The auction 'We Will Rock Ascot' will be held on the 15th and 16th March 2008 at Ascot Racecourse. It is expected to attract music enthusiasts from across the world. Amongst the lots will be unique personal items from the likes of The Beatles, Buddy Holly, Michael Jackson, Queen and Jimi Hendrix. To view the items visit www.cooperowen.com. A percentage of the gate receipts will be donated to Sense.