A piece of art bought for a modest $200 at a garage sale is expected to fetch over $100,000 at auction next week.

Ontario art collector Paul Martin picked up the painting by B.C. artist E.J. Hughes at a yard sale six years ago. Martin later realized the value of the art after researching the artist, who had studied with members of the acclaimed Group of Seven.

Hughes received the Order of Canada in 2001 and was recognized in his investiture as one of Canada's pre-eminent artists, skilled as a painter and printmaker.

Martin, who is expecting a new baby in June, says he'll use the money earned at auction to pay off his mortgage and pay for his child's education.

The Hughes painting will be offered for sale along with works of Emily Carr through the Heffel Fine Auction House in Vancouver on May 23.

With files from the Canadian Press