AN adult art student who graduated from Brockenhurst College this summer and has since received private commissions and television appearances is seeking a backer to help her open a studio.

Beverley Spanswick, 47, a successful City restaurateur until the birth of her only child with Sotos syndrome, enrolled at the New Forest college when her daughter joined a seniors programme at a special school aged 18.

Now the potter is seeking financial assistance to set up a permanent base from which to produce the exciting designs in ceramics that won her first prize at a graduate show and a commission from a top London restaurant.

"If there is an artistic patron looking to invest in "old new talent" or anyone that could possibly offer advice, it would mean so much to me and help my progression," said Beverley.

Beverley's most pressing need is for an oven in which she can fire her delicate, ribbon-like creations. "What I need desperately is a kiln," Beverley said.

Artistic ovens do not come cheap and so Beverley is seeking a financial backer to help her reach the next stage of her burgeoning career in ceramics. "Unfortunately I need a big kiln for my awkward designs, and they can cost as much as £5000," she said.

Bournemouth became Beverley's home three years ago and she has pledged to continue working in the area. "I find the ocean and the forest really inspiring.

"When I drive through the forest, it's a joy," said the Southbourne resident.

The mum-of-one's artistic abilities stretch beyond ceramics. Beverley took time out from her A-Level to appear on Sky TV's, A Forgers Masterclass, where she pitted her talents against other budding artists in front of forger, John Myatt.

"I painted a landscape in the style of Cezanne. The programme was on Sky's arts channel, and you never know who's watching," said Beverley of her brush with TV stardom.

The artistic latecomer has been backed by her tutors at the Lyndhurst Road college. "Beverley set extremely high standards in both practical and design areas and she worked so hard that her progress was extraordinary," said Colin Jones, her lecturer.

  • Anyone who can help should contact Beverley.Spanswick@NTLWORLD.com.