TWO artwork projects are opening up business opportunities for groups of people with learning difficulties by giving them a chance to develop creative ventures.

Managed and run by Cleveland Arts, they are part of the Articulate Programme funded by the health action zone and the Northern Rock Foundation.

Metalworks is a 20-day residency at Upsall Hall, near Guisborough, the rural crafts training centre for adults with learning difficulties. Blacksmith Mr David Stephenson is working with participants and staff on designing and creating a range of gifts that will be sold by the hall.

It is hoped to create a thriving business by appealing to people looking to buy something a little bit different for the home or garden.

Rowena Sommerville, a programme worker involved with Metalworks, said: "This is an excellent opportunity for traditional crafts to be put into practice in a modern context. We hope the project will result not just in a successful business, but that it will also help those taking part to fulfil their artistic abilities and become more aware of the value of their work."

The second project, Inkspots, has similar aims. In this case, Shelly Burgoyne, who has an MA in fine art printmaking and many joint and solo exhibitions to her credit, is working with the print co-operative based at Scope on Teesside.

Her design experience and technical advice is being used to improve the quality of the greetings cards it produces, and a new range will be out in time for Christmas.

Programme manager, Lesley Featherstone, said: "Projects like these are a great way for people to learn new skills. Both are self-sustaining projects that will eventually generate funds which the organisations can put back into developing more initiatives.

"Cleveland Arts wants to help disabled people realise their aspirations through the arts."