AN award-winning artist from Ashby has hosted her first workshop at St Helen's Heritage Centre following the pandemic.

Sue Gardner, 49, welcomed eight attendees to the venue, which has been relaunched following Covid-related closures.

The event – held on Saturday, November 20 – saw Sue assisting local artists to recreate one of her signature Highland Cow portraits using a range of methods including spraying, stippling, splattering and stencilling.

"It felt amazing to be back in a room again – helping artists in person to explore vibrant colours and discover exciting painting techniques," said Sue.

"St Helen's Heritage Centre was finished in 2019 but, owing to the pandemic, this brand-new building is only just now becoming an integral part of the local community.

"It was a true pleasure to welcome attendees to my workshop and I am looking forward to organising more events in the New Year."

Animal enthusiast Sue works out of a new studio and explained that her artistry is inspired by the National Forest in which she lives.

She is best known for her large-scale colourful animal canvases painted in oils.

"Since the first national lockdown in March 2019, the artistic community in Leicestershire has been through an unprecedented and challenging period," added Sue.

"I am very grateful to all my customers who have sustained my business by purchasing and commissioning original works from me, and I am thrilled to be teaching fellow artists to enhance their own skills."