From underworld figures to bushrangers and the French Resistance, Mark "Chopper" Read's art works covered an eclectic mix of characters as well as his warped spin on life.
This weekend will be the last chance to see first-hand a collection of the late gangland figure's works - 41 of them owned by Hunter resident Peter Hall.
The collection, which also includes some tribute pieces (made by other artists) such as a coffin turned coffee table complete with bulletholes and meat cleavers, are on exhibition at Morpeth Gallery.
Mr Hall, Newcastle-based National Event Services Operations Manager, said he met "Chopper" when he was working security at a number of venues where Read was holding his stage shows.
"He could certainly tell a good story," Mr Hall said.
"He was a likeable rogue who captivated everyone and had the mantra, never let the truth get in the way of a good story," he said.
Mark Brandon "Chopper" Read was a convicted Australian criminal, gang member and author. He died in 2013 aged 59 after suffering liver cancer believed to be the result of contracting Hepatitis C in prison. Read wrote a series of semi-autobiographical fictional crime novels and children's books and the 2000 film Chopper starring Eric Bana, is based on his life.
Mr Hall said he purchased his collection piece by piece over a period of time and estimates its worth at $250,000.
Along with the art works, memorabilia, books and merchandise will also be available for sale during the Morpeth Gallery exhibition which will close on Sunday at 5pm.
