LAIKA, the Portland-based animation studio behind Oscar-nominated films like “Coraline,” “ParaNorman” and “The Boxtrolls,” has opened its archives for the first time ever for a limited auction of over 250 puppets, models, props and art. “The Art of LAIKA” will be held by Heritage Auctions on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015 in Beverly Hills.

A portion of the proceeds from the auction will be donated to The Art of Elysium, a non-profit arts organization that works to make art a catalyst for social change.

“In eight years of doing this, I've never seen such enthusiasm among the bidder and fan bases,” Heritage Auctions Public Relations Director Noah Fleischer said. “Every lot has a bid in. LAIKA's crafts are drawing a non-traditional audience for us: 25-35-year-olds.”

“The Boxtrolls,” of course, finds itself in a Best Animated Feature Film race that has been dominated by the likes of “How to Train Your Dragon 2” and “Big Hero 6.” But as I've always maintained, it's a pity films like this end up relegated to the “ghetto” of that category, because the craft – as evidenced by the materials up for this very auction – is tactile and worthy of its own recognition. The costume design is astounding, revealing of character and theme. The sound design builds a whole world that feels tangible, not overblown. The production design, to say the least, is jaw-dropping and meticulous.

Currently LAIKA is in the midst of production on “Kubo and the Two Strings,” which is directed by the studio's president and CEO Travis Knight and set for release in 2016. Matthew McConaughey, Rooney Mara, Charlize Theron and Ralph Fiennes provide voices.

You can take a look at the LAIKA items up for auction in the photo gallery below.