Still touring in support of his latest solo album, "Bar 17," former Phish frontman Trey Anastasio [ tickets ] has announced the formation of the Seven Below Arts Initiative, designed to foster artistic development in the singer's native Vermont.

Anastasio will donate a set of guitar strings from each show on the upcoming second leg of his "Bar 17" tour to be made into bracelets, which will then be auctioned off, with all profits going to the initiative. The performer is partnering with Relix Magazine, which has started a special auction site to support the publication's ongoing "Wear Your Music" effort.

"Since the initial creation of this campaign we've hoped to get Trey involved," said Relix publisher Steve Bernstein in a press release. "He's such an admired musician and his involvement means a lot to everyone on the campaign. This is an especially unique opportunity because fans will be able to purchase the bracelet knowing the exact location and time the strings were played."

The Arts Initiative is a program of the Seven Below Fund, which is managed by The Vermont Community Foundation.More information on the program can be found at the group's website.

Anastasio will kick off the latest leg of his tour Dec. 6 in Eureka, CA. The eight-city trek will end with the singer performing the second of back-to-back shows on New Year's Eve in Atlantic City.

"Bar 17" is Anastasio's follow-up to his 2005 solo release, "Shine," which was issued by Columbia Records.

The new album, which Anastasio released on his newly formed Rubber Jungle label, was recorded over the last three years in various locations, including Anastasio's Barn recording studio in Vermont and co-producer Bryce Googin's Trout Studios in New York City.

Among the musicians who contributed to "Bar 17" were former Phish members Mike Gordon and Jon Fishman, as well as John Medeski, the Benevento/Russo Duo, Carmen Keegan (I-Nine) and Joan Wasser (The Dambuilders).