HE is a renowned artist whose work has sold for millions.

She is just starting out in her career.

But that did not stop world-famous artist David Hockney from snapping up two works by Mirfield artist Helaina Sharpley.

David, who sold one of his paintings for $4.6m in 2006, has bought two wire-work pieces for an undisclosed amount from the former Mirfield Free Grammar School pupil.

For 25-year-old Helaina it came as a major surprise and a recognition she still cannot believe.

Helaina, who is this weekend taking part in the Holmfirth Art Market, said: “I had some pieces in Gallery 49 in Bridlington and they were having a preview for another exhibition and invited David Hockney along.

“He doesn’t go to them all but went along to this one and saw two of my pieces and bought them.

“When the gallery rang to tell me I didn’t believe them.

“It doesn’t feel real, it sounds surreal just saying it.

“They’ve been on show since February and were the last two pieces.”

Helaina’s work involves creating images from wire which she then suspends above paper.

Her designs are based on tea – everything from tea cups to tea parties – which have proven popular.

She added: “Of course it’s great that someone as respected as David Hockney has taken an interest in my work.

“His career has gone so far it’s amazing – he’s got the recognition artists aspire for throughout the world – so it’s great he’s seen something I’ve done and likes it.”

David Hockney, who is based in Bridlington, was born in Bradford in 1937.

He is considered one of the most influential British artists of the twentieth century and was an integral part of the 1960s pop movement.

Reports suggest his ‘A Bigger Grand Canyon’ series (60 pictures that combined to produce one enormous image) was bought by the National Gallery of Australia for $4.6 million in 2006.

In the same year his painting of The Splash fetched £2.6 million – a record for a Hockney painting.

Helaina has been working as a professional artist for four years after graduation from Herefordshire College of Art and Design.

She had previously completed a foundation year at Batley School of Art and Design.

Helaina now works from the West Yorkshire Print Workshop in Mirfield – a hub of creativity for new and emerging artists.

She has work on show at around 15 galleries throughout the country, sells at retail fares and takes part in art markets, such as this weekend’s in Holmfirth.

She added: “I’m sharing a stand with Samantha Bryan who I also share a studio with.

“Events like this are great and we’re looking forward to it.”

The Holmfirth Art Market takes place on Sunday at the Holmfirth Indoor Market from 10am until 4pm.

See page 30 for further details about Holmfirth Art Market.