Exhibition of art from across Britain opens its doors in Shropshire

More than 70 artists and sculptors are exhibiting their work at the annual Ellesmere National Art Exhibition and Sale of Works held at Ellesmere College.

The exhibition was opened on Thursday by its patron, former high sheriff of Shropshire Diana Flint, and will be open until Sunday.

She said: "It was amazing to see the high quality of work being exhibited in this wonderful surroundings. I have attended the event over the last three years, I can see how it has grown and developed into an unmissable exhibition."

This year there are new artists' workshops, which offer a chance for artists to meet and exchange ideas.

Maximillion Baccanello has gained an international reputation as a top portrait painter. His workshops over the weekend will explore a variety of drawing techniques and tools, where participants will be able to develop a wide range of drawing techniques.

Visual landscape artist Andrew Vaughan will be looking at expressive landscapes for beginners and advanced artists on Saturday.

With over 600 visitors last year, the aim of the arts exhibition is the raise the profile of the arts in the region.

Nick Pettingale, a director from Ellesmere College, said: "We have always been passionate about the arts at Ellesmere College and after our inaugural exhibition last year. We are even more excited about this year's event.

"Our goal is to see the artistic talent, both local and national, celebrated and given a higher profile in the region. This isn't a display of our students work - great though that is - but rather that of professional artists and sculptors."