Hirst auctioning off his art

LONDON, Aug. 24 (UPI) -- Artist Damien Hirst says he hopes to reduce his art backlog by placing hundreds of pieces up for auction with the British auction house Sotheby's.

The artist, known for works such as "The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living," said in addition to 34 butterfly paintings he created, he will auction off 223 other pieces at the London auction house next month, The Sunday Times of London reported.

The major art auction represents a significant change in sales for the 43-year-old artist, whose works previously were collected only by British clientele at the White Cube gallery in London.

Hirst maintains his decision was due to his growing backlog of art and a desire to reach the international community.

"It takes a bit of courage or madness to get to where you just cut out the galleries and take a whole load of box-fresh pieces straight to market," he told the Times. "No strings. Highest bidder wins."