AN artist who followed his heart and opened his own studio has celebrated his first anniversary.

Damon Hall, of Leigh Sinton, near Worcester, became a professional painter in February last year when he quit his job as a production supervisor in Malvern and opened a studio, situated next to the Fownes Hotel in City Walls Road, Worcester.

"I wasn't quite sure what was going to happen," said the 31-year-old, "but it's been quite a success."

On Thursday, March 29, Mr Hall, who describes his work as modern/ contemporary, held an opening evening to mark the milestone.

"A lot of art galleries can be pretentious and people are put off by that," he said. "I'm just trying to cater for something a little bit different. Everything I sell is original but it's not over-priced.

"People can chose the size and colour they want and I think they appreciate that." Mr Hall did an art foundation course but never went on to degree level.

"I lost interest in it slightly," he said.

"But then people were always saying I should take it further, do it professionally."

He said it hasn't been easy but to wake up each morning and go to a job you really enjoy is worth it. "Now I'm just building a reputation and trying to get more local people coming to the studio."

To find out more visit www.damonhallartstudio.co.uk.