A COMPANY has been praised for its support of artists ahead of its new gallery launch.

Beckford Silk, which is based in Beckford, will be exhibiting the work of three local artists in its new gallery, which launches on Friday from 6.30pm.

The event is open to customers and local people, with the aim of raising the profile of county-grown talent.

Painter Antonia Black, has worked with Beckford Silk for the last 25 years and the exhibition will feature a selection of her still life paintings.

She said: “What Beckford Silk does with its prints is to make art more accessible for people. You may not be able to afford to buy an artist’s prints, but you can buy a scarf and keep it forever."

The gallery will be housed in a converted part of Beckford Silk’s current shop and will feature the work of Antonia Black, Toff Milway, and local award-winning milliner, Lisa von Hallwy.

Anne Hopkins from Beckford Silk said: “We have built up some wonderful relationships with a number of artists over the years and it is always a pleasure to bring their patterns and designs to the public.

"We are delighted to be able to extend that further and use our new gallery as a showcase for local talent.

To enquire about attending the launch, email sales@beckfordsilk.co.uk