WHEN art student Helen Conroy was looking for inspiration for her final year degree show, she did not have to go further than the top of her head.

The 22-year-old redhead from Riccal, in York, came up with the idea of creating a book looking at the history and myths surrounding redheads.

It features famous redheads, from painter Titian's voluptuous women to cartoon lunatic Yosemite Sam.

Helen, who is studying a design degree at the University of Sunderland, said: "I looked into the folklore surrounding redheads, and found that, at best, we were considered deceitful, and at worst, dangerous.

"From Titian to Van Gogh, redhead women are depicted as seductive and deceitful, which I hardly think is fair."

Despite her extensive research, Helen felt she could not quite dismiss all the myths surrounding redheads.

She said: "I think I am quite fiery, so perhaps I am a typical redhead, though I do not think I am as bad as Yosemite Sam."

Helen's work can be seen as part of the University of Sunderland's 2003 Arts, Design, Media and Culture Degree Show, featuring more than 100 artists who are graduating this year. The show is open to the public until June 28. All work is for sale.