A GROUP of artists from Overton and beyond are looking to promote creativity in the area, starting with a special launch event this weekend.

The Overton Creatives, a newly-formed group of like-minded artists and craftspeople, will be hosting a welcome evening at the Overton Community Centre tomorrow (Friday) from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

An open day then takes place on Saturday from 9.30am to 3pm.

Organisers have said they want the event to be ‘like a mini-arts festival,’ showcasing the artists’ work while also acting as a social event for the community.

Jo South, one of the group’s members, said: “We thought it would be really nice to do something local.

“So we approached five other artists that we knew who were all doing something different.”

The number of artists involved, all of whom are based in Overton and the surrounding area, has since increased to seven.

Their range of work includes paintings, ceramics and textiles with works on display at the events this weekend.

Visitors will be able to meet the creators, view their art and purchases pieces. Friday night’s event will also feature music, nibbles and refreshments.

Jo says the group has been influenced by Hampshire Open Studios, an annual art trail allowing the public to meet artists in their studios or galleries.

Plans for future events are already been discussed, with the group hoping to welcome new members too.

Jo added: “I think we will expand it because there are a lot of other people in Overton who said, ‘can we join?’ It’s not an exclusive group at all. We would really like to do some kind of open studio, but here in Overton.”

For more on each of the artists and their work, search ‘the Overton Creatives’ on Facebook.