Artwork owned by George Michael to go under the hammer

A collection of artwork once owned by George Michael will go on display this weekend, ITV News can exclusively reveal.

The pieces, with an estimated value of £8 million, will be displayed at Christie's auction house in central London ahead of going under the hammer next week.

Money raised from the auction will go toward supporting the causes Michael held close to his heart during his life.

They come from a range of artists who had an impact on Britain's cultural scene as great as Michael did himself.

The pop star, who made his name in the 1980s duo known as Wham! and went on to have a successful solo career, was a secret philanthropist.

Throughout his life he gave generously to charities and individuals in need of support, a fact which only came to light after his death on Christmas Day 2016.

The singer wished for his artwork to be sold for charitable causes after his death. Credit: PA

Among the collection for sale is a piece commissioned by the singer, an ever-changing portrait of himself - perhaps a nod to his versatility as a musician.

Another is a piece of work, said to be one of the singer's favourites, which once hung above the fireplace in his home.

The price tag for the pieces ranges from a few hundred pounds up to more than £1 million.

Christie's said it was one of the musician's wishes his art collection would be sold on with the money given to charity.