THE WORK of three local artists is on display at a new temporary exhibition at the Dorset County Museum.

The MIX exhibition runs until March 25 and features the work of Maddy Down, Helen Francis and Peter Runeckles, who all have a long association with the museum through their voluntary work in various departments.

The trio work in a wide variety of styles and media including oils, watercolour, pastels, textiles and enamels and they have arrived at this point on their creative journeys by very different routes.

Maddy's interest in painting was prompted by gaining a degree in Art History at Winchester in 2001.

She was brought up in the Yorkshire Dales but has lived in Dorset for 45 years.

A museum spokesman said: "The Dorset coast, cliffs and landscapes are her inspiration.

"She conveys what she feels rather than a purely literal response."

Helen trained at Loughborough College of Art, gaining a BA (Hons) in Textiles specialising in embroidery.

After graduating she worked at the Hampton Court Palace and the Victoria and Albert Museum as a textile conservator.

An interest in historic needlework and costume continues through her work as a volunteer at the Museum.

Influenced by her garden, flowers and everyday objects, Helen makes still life pictures using fabric, paint and thread.

She uses layers of dyed silk to create depth and intensity of colour. Mark making with hand and free machine embroidery are added to accentuate the design.

Peter has been painting since his school days when he was taught by wildlife artist R.B.Talbot Kelly.

Since then he has worked independently producing paintings and sculptures. He also joined a print making group at Bournemouth Art College.

Peter’s works in this show include paintings in oil and acrylic, Humbrol enamels, water colours, etchings and screen prints.

For more information about the exhibition visit dorsetcountymuseum.org or call 01305 262735.