A LOCAL artist is launching his career in fine style by touring the country with his limited edition picture of one of the world's most famous ships.

Ray Podolchuk, 46, of Exford Drive, Bolton, was determined not to miss the boat when the Australian replica of The Endeavour sailed into Britain.

In the months leading up to the ship's arrival, Ray spent hours studying videos, books and pictures to create a vivid painting of Captain Cook's historic ship.

Ray has had 550 limited edition prints made of the picture and will be visiting each port the ship visits in an attempt to sell them all.

He has been carrying out commissions for people for numerous years, and can turn his hand to anything, including portraits, buildings and animals.

He has had his work published and his limited edition picture of Smithills Hall is on sale at the Town Hall and Smithills library shop.

However, he has decided to go to the public direct with his painting of The Endeavour. He has visited Whitby, and next month plans to spend every day in Liverpool during the ship's visit from July 10 to 20.

Each framed print will be sold for £105. Ray said: "This is good value because in a gallery the same thing would be sold for about £150."

Ray is a graphic designer by trade, but has decided he would like to become a full time artist.

He said: "When I heard about The Endeavour coming to Britain, it seemed too good an opportunity to miss. It is high profile and should appeal to a great many people."

Ray's style is unusual. It is almost two dimensional and mixes both medium soft shading with vivid, bright colours.

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