If you’ve ever wanted to experience the art work of artist Sharon Wilson, up close and person, now is your chance.

The artist is offering a special open house on Saturday to celebrate her 60th birthday. There will be cake, art, and informational lectures about different art techniques. The open house is being done in conjunction with two other artists, Monica Jones and Chikako Hoshina.

“Our coming together is the product of eight years of working together, during which time we’ve come to realise and value the connection that can be

created with the buying public in relaxed and informal surroundings,” said Ms Wilson. “ We have given serious thought to the needs and wants of the buying public. It is for this reason that we are creating a unique and exciting atmosphere in which to experience the art.”

She said: “Previous open houses at my gallery have proven that people value opportunities to talk openly and honestly with us and ask questions in comfortable surroundings. It’s also an occasion to unwind, and let us turn on the kettle and make a cup of tea, or pot of Starbucks coffee, to be enjoyed with a piece of my birthday cake and learn who we are and what we’re about.”

Ms Wilson, known for her paintings of Bermudian schoolchildren and family life, will do a demonstration of the ancient art of hot encaustic painting, a method which dates back some 4,000 years and which was used by the Egyptians to create the famous Fayyum portraits. She also has a new selection of small landscapes on offer.

“We encourage the public to come and enjoy some time with us,” said Ms Wilson.

The open house will be held at her studio at 2 Turtle Place, Southampton on Saturday from 10am to 6pm.