MUSEUM bosses have appointed their first artist-in-residence at a castle.

Adam King has been given the role at Knaresborough Museum, where he will bring art and archaeology together.

He has set up his studio at the castle's Courthouse Museum for the summer season thanks to funding from Arts Council England.

He plans to research medieval fragments in the castle grounds and find new ways to express their qualities.

"I am particularly interested in the use of decorative symbolism and sacred geometry," he said.

"I hope to be able to bring contemporary abstract painting into an environment that is predominantly associated with the past."

The head of Harrogate's museums and arts service, Ceryl Evans, said: "We are looking for ways to improve the accessibility of the castle to visitors, to enliven and extend the scope of our activities there - and the residency is a step in that direction."

Mr King will be welcoming visitors to his studio throughout the season. It will be open on Fridays from 10.30am to 4pm with a half-hour break starting at 12.30pm.

It will also be open on Medieval Day at the castle, which takes place on June 20, and on the National Heritage Open Days on September 11.

Published: 28/05/2004