Watch: Poldark star cuts ribbon to open sculptor Jane's 'live art' gallery in Church Stretton
A television actor has helped open an art studio with a difference in a Shropshire town.
Robert Daws, who stars in BBC show Poldark as Dr Choake, was on hand to cut the ribbon at The Old Stables Art Studio in Church Stretton at the weekend.
The open studio has been set up by his friend, sculptor Jane Robbins, who has worked for six months to get the "live gallery" open. Visitors will not only be able to view her sculptures and paintings but also pop in while Jane is working and see her in action.
Veteran screen, stage and radio actor, Mr Daws, said: "The place was buzzing, it was full of people coming to look and see what it is all about..
"What is interesting about it is there are a lot of galleries all over the place and wonderful artists exhibiting their work but Jane wants to have a live gallery, it is where she works and she can show off her work and people can see her at work."
Daws said his love of art began at a young age, as his father was a marine artist.
He said: "I am a huge fan of art. I grew up with the smell of paint around me and I got used to bumping into half finished canvasses so I have always had that as part of the family and that continues.
"My children are very interested in art and we have always been huge admirers of Jane's work I have bought a lot of things which I have cherry picked of hers over the years. So when she asked me and I said yes, it is exciting and I am delighted for her because I think she is hugely talented and great believer in the arts."
He also admitted it gave him a good excuse to come back to Shropshire. He was last in the county before Christmas when he starred in The Perfect Murder at Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury.
He said: "I come to Shropshire as often I can. It is one of my favourite counties, as soon as I drive into Shropshire I relax and I love it and love the countryside and the villages."
Visitors to The Old Stables Art Studio will be able to purchase original paintings, cards and hand made gifts by Jane and locals will have the chance to sign up to a calendar of classes, tutorials and talks. The first sculpting class is set to take place on May 2.
