A YOUNG woman with a talent for eye-catching drawings is the latest artist to make use of a new exhibition space.

Former Weymouth College student Danielle French is staging her first exhibition at the new Portland Arts Centre until June 27.

It comes at a time when the people running the centre are in desperate need of help to keep it running.

Artists Katherine Bryan-Merrett and Samantha Polley took over the Old Laundry in Brymers Avenue, Fortuneswell, last year with the intention of turning it into a venue with affordable studios and teaching and exhibition space for the community.

Some artists have already moved in and exhibitions have been held to raise funds. There is still plenty of studio space available.

Katherine and Samantha have appealed for volunteers including people with knowledge of planning applications and those who can offer guidance in applying for grants.

A number of local artists are currently exhibiting their work for free at the venue.

Danielle, 20, said: “I have been doing some work experience at the arts centre and I asked if I could exhibit my work.

“This will be my first exhibition and I’m really excited. Early feedback has been positive.”

Danielle, who lives in Weymouth, has been drawing ever since she could hold a pen.

She attended The Wey Valley School before going to Weymouth College to study art and design. She didn’t finish her second course but is keen to pursue her art.

Her unusual drawings are so detailed they resemble prints but they are actually permanent marker on canvas. It creates the impression the picture is jumping out at the viewer.

Danielle said: “Some people have said my pictures are like an illusion that they can see things in but I think they’re like an enormous doodle – complex, abstract and emotional.”

She said she was proud to have her work exhibited.”