A NEW arts studio showcasing the work of contemporary artists has opened in the region.

Room at the Top is located on the top floor of Winpenny House, in High Street, Yarm, near Stockton, and is the brainchild of Juliet Hardy.

Ms Hardy and her business partner, Dianne Bowell, wanted to create an unconventional arts space where they could work on their own commissions, as well as offer exhibition space to other artists.

Ms Hardy said: "There are not many contemporary art galleries in the Teesside area. As well as painting and exhibiting our own work, we very much want to showcase the work of other artists, both locally and nationally."

Room at the Top will be used as a studio for three weeks a month, with an exhibition opening on the last Thursday of every month.

For further details, contact Ms Hardy on 07736 048024.

Published: 03/02/2004