A little known registered charity, Artbeat exists to help people fulfil their creative potential and aims to ensure that everyone who wants to can participate in the arts and events that take place in the Borders.
Tuition is offered by experienced tutors who will help identify an interest and offer advice when needed.

And everything that Artbeat stands for is within this forthcoming exhibition.



Jean-Pierre's photographs, pictured, are outstanding and of a very high standard. His tutor and well-known local photographer Pat Rafferty is both enthusiastic and excited about the show. He told the Hawick News: "I can only teach basic photography, but what Jean-Pierre has achieved is way beyond that. He simply has the gift of getting the best out of a photograph from the quality of light to the image of the picture itself. His work is unique and very special.

"He carries his camera around and is just naturally creative in everything he does in the way of photography."

Artbeat administrator Irene Benson told us: "We are very excited about holding the exhibition. Jean Pierre has been coming to us for about six months and he is turning out to be a great ambassador for us.

"A lot goes on in the studios, from learning to play the guitar to watercolour and fabric painting and, of course, digital photography.

"We simply support people to be creative in the community and it's all down to the help of volunteers.

"Artbeat is made up of the voices you do not really hear," added Irene. "But following Jean-Pierre's exhibition they may perhaps be heard a little more."

The display runs from July 21-31 Monday-Friday 10am-3pm.