AN arts shop is putting local creatives in the frame with a special collaboration at its studio in Gourock.

Crow Cottage Arts is displaying a wide range of work from paintings to jewellery, with the items for sale at the studio which is run by Alec Galloway and Louise Wylie.

The six pop-up artists involved in the collaboration are Heather Dowds, Nicola Young, Catrìona Reid, Mik Grant, Linda Ross and Janet Forry.

Nicola, who has taught art at West College Scotland for more than 20 years, said the collaboration was a great opportunity to work with other artists.

She said: "When you put on an exhibition, you put yourself out there but when it is with other artists you have the support of like-minded people.

"I feel flattered that Alec has invited me to be part of this collaboration."

Janet is based in Busby but her daughter lives in Greenock.

She visited the gallery by chance and discovered that she and Alec had attended Edinburgh School of Art at the same time.

Janet said: "It has been lovely working with the other artists, they are very enthusiastic.

"I am one of the more experienced artists in the group, so it's been nice to pass on my knowledge and experience."

Linda started going to Alec's fused glass classes and said it re-ignited her passion for art after a break of some 30 years.

She said: "I started doing commercial art, design and pottery at Cardonald College then I got married, had a family.

"I only started back seriously in October and I enjoy it even more now.

"They're a lovely bunch here, so supportive and really enthusiastic."

Alec says he wants Crow Cottage Arts to provide a platform for artists in the community.

He said: "A major part of our vision for the gallery is to support and develop creative talent in Inverclyde.

"We believe the most important part of that is engaging with all ages and stages of artists.

"Working collaboratively is of enormous benefit to the artists and are delighted to be able to support them here.

"Kempock Street is the perfect hub for creative work, with the shops, the cafes and restaurants and landscape.

"The response locally to all our classes and exhibitions has been wonderful and this exhibition has been no exception, we are so proud of this group of artists and hope that as many people as possible can pop in and see their work this month."

Silversmith Heather Dowds has a pop up gallery every Monday and Tuesday.

She gave up her career in social housing after 38 years to set up a small jewellery business last year.

Heather said: "After completing silversmithing courses at Glasgow City College in 2015, I purchased equipment and materials to continue to make items for family and friends. During lockdown I embraced the time spent indoors by developing my skills then progressed to selling via social media. This led me to give up a 38-year career in social housing to set up my small business in December 2021."

"I’m honoured and grateful to Alec and Lou for inviting me to join the Crow Cottage collaboration. It has been a joy to be welcomed into such a creative community."

*The exhibition is open every day until February.