A WEST Dorset artist has been presented a prestigious prize for her award-winning piece of art, Ladram Red.

Frances Hatch, from Burton Bradstock received The Shenzhen International Watercolour Biennial Prize from Rt Hon John Whittingdale MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport this month at the private exhibition of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours at The Mall Galleries in London.

Frances used earth from the coast to capture Ladram Bay near Sidmouth in her piece.

Frances said: “It’s encouraging to receive affirmation, and in such good company too. Whenever I put work up in public it makes me feel very exposed, it is like putting myself on the wall.

“Attracting positive feedback means a great deal.”

The future looks bright for the humble landscape artist.

Frances said: “I’m taking an exhibition over to Guernsey in November. I’ve just enjoyed a research grant to spend time working on the island.

“In 2017 I’m exhibiting at Sladers Yard in West Bay. It’s a gorgeous space and a privilege to be invited back.

“I’m a painter working ‘en plein air’ in all weathers and I love it. Always have.

“It’s mysterious how much more you notice when you draw. I think it is the quality of attention when painting that allows the world to be seen more vividly.”