RUD Nielsen left his native Denmark to study in Stockholm and Paris, followed by a long career in fashion and design.

After arriving in South Lakeland from Scotland in 1983, he started a retail business in Bowness with his wife Eva, and only started painting when he retired at 66, some six years ago: "I've always wanted to paint but one is always too busy making a living.

"It's quite daunting to start off facing a blank canvas.

But that's one of the things that keeps the excitement.

And I'm still young enough for that."

I first stumbled upon this talented guy at a the Staveley Roundhouse exhibition.

And he's certainly gained a few fans.

His bold, simple, and colourful oils of predominantly Kendal and other South Lakeland scenes are well-worth seeing and are on show at Beetham's Heron Theatre until February 10, Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am-2pm, or outside those hours by appointment.

Contact 015395-64283.