A group of artists and craftspeople from in and around Ashton have formed a new group to promote their work.

Ashton Arts Group was set up by artist Tony Shorthouse, who paints and runs art classes from his home at Tresowes Green.

There are currently nine members, of whom five will be taking part in Open Studios later this month, from May 24 to June 1.

Digby Atkinson is a former art director whose career included 13 years working with Charles Saatchi. His varied work includes drawing, painting, 3D work and print-making.

Jane Bath produces figurative painting, 3D and textile pieces using mixed media including wax, straw, inks, paint and cloth, while Kevin Harris is a furniture maker and woodworker producing items mainly by hand. His off-cuts are turned into smaller items, and leftovers are returned to the land as mulch.

Jackie Harrison produces handwoven textiles, in the form of wall hangings, rugs and tapestries featuring the colours and pattern of the Cornish coastline, while Leach Pottery trained ceramicist Nic Harrison’s work is enriched by the use of iron glazes.

Rachel Jeffery produces images inspired by Cornish rock pools and waves, Linda Matthews is inspired by the coastline near her home in ever-changing weather conditions, and often uses mixed media to create surface texture, and Ingrid Sofrin paints seascapes, many of which feature views of Porthleven, as well as still life subjects.

Finally, group founder Tony Shorthouse paints impressionistic views of the Cornish coast and landscape, interspersed with character portraits.

The group will be holding a joint exhibition at the Lifeboat Art Studio in Porthleven for a week from September 19, and will have a stall at Porthleven Lifeboat Day on August 10.