FOR the past few weeks, artist Alex Clark has been designing a range of greetings cards for publication next year.

Her cards sell in 500 outlets across the UK and in Europe and the trade side of her business keeps going from strength to strength.

While her cards, mainly featuring comical pictures of animals, are by far the most successful, she also sells a range of prints from her Lime Tree Gallery, just off the market square in Stanhope, County Durham.

Originals can sell for up to £800 and customers travel from far and wide to collect her work.

Miss Clark, 30, studied biology at university, but enjoyed art from a very early age.

Her mother Christine said: "She is a very talented artist and instead of doing anything with the biology, she decided to take up an enterprise scheme with Derwentside Council and set up her own business.

"The gallery is a huge success, although Alex is often away dealing with the trade side and attending many shows in London and Birmingham.

"She loves to paint and will try her hand at practically anything. Her farmyard animals are so popular. I'm so proud of her for the amount of time and effort she puts into her work."

Anyone wanting to learn more about Miss Clark's work can visit www.alexclarkart.co.uk.

Published: 15/12/2004