AN artist and ex-scaffolder who risked it all when he sold his house to pursue his dream of bringing a new arts space to Great Yarmouth is appealing for local talent.

AN artist and ex-scaffolder who risked it all when he sold his house to pursue his dream of bringing a new arts space to Great Yarmouth is appealing for local talent.

It was shortly after losing his job and being diagnosed with a form of arthritis that Anthony James Beaney, known as Beano, decided to sell his four bedroom home in Newtown for a site at 33a Market Row.

Now, four years after moving in, he and a team are in the final stages of renovating the space using mostly recycled materials in preparation for the gallery.

Named Dead Monkeys No Brians, it will be open on April 1 with a strong focus on contemporary art.

And Beano, 50, is looking for local artists who might want to display their work and join the twelve artists currently involved with the project.

He said: “I have lived here all my life and I've had this idea for some time. I think that the creative side to Great Yarmouth is really starting to take off at the moment.”

Beano was able to bring the project together after studying a business course, and receiving a grant from, locally-based enterprise agency NWES last year.

He also emphasised that new talent was welcome, explaining that among the works on display will be those of a student from Great Yarmouth College.

“We're not looking for the kinds of watercolours you see elsewhere but we are looking for contemporary artists who work in a range of mediums- kind of like the Tate Modern.”

Those interested can contact Sarah Lamprell on 07722270894.