BUDDING artists from art classes at Somerset Skills and Learning are having their first exhibition of their work at the Princess Theatre and Arts Centre.

Starting this week, the exhibition includes examples of watercolour, colour pencils and pencil and can be seen for three weeks in the centres gallery.

Sue Clist, one of the learners presenting her work, said: “I came along to a life drawing workshop last year and really enjoyed it.

“I signed up to the level 1 in Art, Design and Creative Studies and I am really enjoying the course.

“The tutor is constantly pushing me out of my comfort zone and encouraging me to tackle new challenges.”

Sue had an accident 15 years ago which severely damaged her left arm, ending her working life.

The strain of only using her right arm took its toll and she came to a point where she couldn't manage to write a complete shopping list, let alone get herself dressed.

But after joining the course she said: “I am consistently being amazed with what I am achieving. Every week I look at what I have done and I say to myself 'I did that. I achieved that!'”

Another learner is Evelyn Rouse, from Burnham, who is displaying three of her paintings.

Evelyn did a course last year with Somerset Skills and Learning and enjoyed it so much she has come back to build and improve on her skills.

Somerset Skills and Learning have got a programme of art classes and workshops planned for the summer, including 'Making Greeting Cards', 'How to Draw and Create Humour' and 'Painting Watercolour Portraits'.

Call in to the centre in Princess St or look online at www.learnsomerset.co.uk/coursefinder.