PAINTING and drawing workshops staged by community artists begin next week.

The classes, for beginners and more experienced artists, are run by Bearpark Artists’ Co-operative.

‘Students’ can opt to undergo either a structured course or pursue a more personal tailored format, enabling them to develop their own individual creative work.

Tutors John Foker and Barrie Ormsby oversee ten workshop sessions, starting at Bearpark Community Centre, in Institute Terrace, on Monday, from 9.45 to 11.45am.

Mr Foker said it is a “friendly” environment, with a usual mix of old hands and new faces.

There is a £90 charge for ten workshops.

Mr Ormsby is also running a life-drawing course, at the centre, over ten-weeks, starting at the artists’ studio, on Monday October 1.

Classes take place between 7.30 and 9.30pm, with a £120 charge for ten workshops, or £60 for five workshops, which is inclusive of the model’s fees.

Described as, “a structured taught course in the studio”, basic drawing materials will be provided.

Artists attending should bring their own medium.

Meanwhile, longer workshops, are being staged on the second Saturday of the next three months.

They are on October 13, November 10 and December 8, between 10am and 3.30pm. The charge is £50 per workshop.

Pre-enrolment is essential for all activities , with a £10 deposit requested to guarantee a place.

Further details are available via www.bearparkartists.co.uk, or by ringing Mr Foker, on 0791-348 5965 or Mr Ormsby, on 0744-217 6704.