A SERIES of artistic talks are taking place in Winchester as part of the Hyde900 project.

The events will start at Hyde Parish Hall, with the option of continuing in the Harpo Club at the nearby Hyde Tavern afterwards.

The Art of Conversation series is designed to give insights into the career, creativity and craft of artists working in a variety of disciplines.

Framed around a dialogue between the artist and an interviewer each session will feature samples of the artist’s work as a springboard for an in-depth discussion.

It is likely to include how they were drawn to their field, their inspiration, working method, commercial development and goals for the future.

During the interval drinks will be served and this will be followed by a question and answer session with the audience.

The events take place on Wednesdays at the parish hall at 7.30pm and start with poet Stephen Boyce on May 11 talking to Bill Lucas.

He will also speak to glass engraver Tracey Sheppard on May 25 and guitarists Mark and Helen Eden on July 13.

Stephen Boyce will return on June 1 to interview artist Alex Hoare. Sophie Cunningham Dawe will then speak to another artist, Andrew Carnie, on June 15, followed by architect, Robert Adam, on June 29.

Tickets cost £5 and booking in advance is advised on |01962 868581 or via email at edward.fennell@virgin.net.