A DRAG king artist will be in residence at Darlington Libraries exploring the theme of the Grand Tour.

Darlo to Boro is our Grand Tour is the theme for artist Lady Kitt, who is in residence at Crown Street Library, which forms part of the Middlesbrough Art Weekender.

The project explores the idea that cultural life in the North-East can be just as exciting as the 18th century Grand Tour, a popular cultural journey through Europe undertaken by the upper classes.

It will see the floor of Crown Street Gallery become a giant, 3D paper map of Darlington featuring locations suggested – and made – by local people either online or during workshops at the library.

On Tuesday, from 2.30-4.30pm, Lady Kitt and drag queen Miss Penny Press will 'set sail' around the town centre in a giant origami paper boat for an interactive performance, as they invite people to write or draw their favourite things about Darlington on to the boat.

Lady Kitt said: "I’ve already held several workshops at the library and am keen to get more people involved in helping the map ‘grow’ out of the floor of the gallery. I imagine the work will reflect the history of the town and the wider area, through an exploration of the archives, and perhaps our imagined futures.

"I’m sure it will also draw on my own experiences of growing up near here and my changing perceptions, now returning as an adult. But above all, I want it to reflect the views and thoughts of local people – and everyone involved will be credited."