A PROLIFIC Droitwich Spa artist is helping to launch a scheme to encourage talent of the future.

Neill Lowdon is working in partnership with Droitwich Library's Val Booler to give residents the chance to exhibit a piece of work there for a month.

A self-portrait of Neill will be the first piece of art exhibited in the Artist of the Month showcase and then it is up to talented townsfolk to continue the trend.

Speaking to the Advertiser/Messenger about his self-portrait Neill said: "This recent pastel, done in my Droitwich studio is a combination of light and shade, observed drawing and motive colour bound together within the confines of this beautiful permanent material-soft pastel."

Neill completed his training at art colleges in Falmouth and Orleans 22 years ago and has predominantly painted landscapes but also takes commissions for portraits. He has exhibited his work in Europe and currently has pieces in galleries across the south west of England, including Worcestershire.

However, he has now thrown down the gauntlet to folk across the district by helping to give them the chance to show their work too.

"We are looking for a piece of work significant to the artist or craftsperson and with it one page of explanation about the work and the artist.

"We really want to give people a chance to show off their work, when they might not be confident to do so."

He added that the second piece of work to be shown is a Greek-style mosaic. It is hoped the showcase will be of interest to residents in both Droitwich and Bromsgrove.

For more details visit the Victoria Square library or call 01905 773292. Alternatively, E-mail Neill on neill.lowdon@aol.com