A former pupil at The King’s School has set up her own venture in Sidmouth - just a year after graduating from university.

Jools Mercer opened Jools in The Artshed, Libra Court, less than a month ago.

The artist said she is excited to be starting the studio after moving to Devon from Lancashire six years ago.

The 21–year-old has been interested in art from a young age and began specialising in free machine embroidery during her second year at Plymouth University and began creating pieces by observing people, looking for their distinct characteristics.

After graduating with a degree in fine art, she looked to find an open studio where she could display and sell her work.

Jools said: “During my third year of university I spent much of my time in residence at The Bread and Roses pub in Plymouth, and also in Plymouth City Council’s Graduate Southwest show. Here I developed a love for working in situ in a public space, where I could let my surroundings freely influence my work.

“My degree work was very much inspired by the residents and visitors of Sidmouth, so it is just brilliant for me to be able to set up my studio here.”

Jools displays a variety of pieces - from portrait flowers and buildings to curious objects, influenced by her surroundings.