Work by creative arts students in the Highlands has been unveiled in a new exhibition that will be seen by thousands of shoppers.

The community gallery in the Eastgate Shopping Centre is hosting the display by 20 students from Inverness College UHI.

It celebrates the work of students studying an array of courses including art and design, beauty, drama, hairdressing, fashion make-up and visual communication.

The wide range of art, showing until July 31, includes graphic design, painting and sculpture.

The community gallery, near Next, gives local schools, community groups, artists and photographers the chance to showcase their visual art for free.

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Kirstin Gault, the centre’s digital and marketing executive, said: "Our community gallery is a fantastic way for the centre to continue to engage, inspire and connect with the local community.

"The exhibition by Inverness College UHI gives new, young, and talented individuals a platform for their work to be admired by Eastgate’s regular customers, whilst also bringing new customers into the centre."

Sharon Macfarlane, head of the college’s school for creative arts, said the pandemic meant many exhibitions had been online so it was wonderful to show the students’ talents in a physical space.

"Our students have shown a real positive attitude, as well as resilience and determination throughout their studies this year and we are delighted to be able to mark their achievements in this way," she said.

"It’s also a great opportunity for anyone thinking about studying to have a look at all the amazing projects our students work on."

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