An artist is hoping to "tap into the creative minds of Bridport" by opening his own art studio - all from his back garden. 

Peter Dixon, 36, from Waytown, began an artistic career after serving in the armed forces for ten years. 

He has since garnered a social media following through his 29 day art challenges this year and last year, which featured paintings of iconic sites across Dorset. 

Now Peter has unveiled his latest artistic project, converting an old horse shed in his back garden into a new art studio. 

Peter's garden shed which will be converted into an art studioPeter's garden shed which will be converted into an art studio (Image: Peter Dixon) He said: "It took three years to apply for planning permission for it and I'm excited for it to open.

"It's going to be a place to showcase my work while also being able to feature local artists in Bridport."

Peter hopes the studio will be completed by spring 2024 and is hoping to create a hub where budding artists can meet and collaborate on work. 

He said: "I'm hoping to hold workshops and groups in there with artists from Waytown and all over Bridport. 

"Bridport has a thriving artistic space hosting events like the Art Unlimited Open Art competition and I'm looking forward to give back to that community that inspired me."

Peter Dixon with his landscapes of scenes in DorsetPeter Dixon with his landscapes of scenes in Dorset (Image: Peter Dixon) The artist previously set himself a goal of creating 29 paintings, one for each day of February, choosing various areas around Dorset such as Golden Cap, West Bay, the Mary Anning statue in Lyme, Durdle Door, and Portland Bill lighthouse.

These were subsequently exhibited at the La Storta Gallery in Venice. 

READ MORE: Peter Dixon's Dorset paintings on display at La Storta Gallery

Throughout the month of October, Peter will be selling some of his art work with all sales going towards building his dream studio. 

Peter Dixon's art work at La Storta gallery in VenicePeter Dixon's art work at La Storta gallery in Venice (Image: Peter Dixon) Peter's wife Joey also shared her excitement for the project and said the couple hope to eventually offer their own residency programme where artists can also be inspired by the picturesque scenes of west Dorset as he was,

She said: "We eventually hope people will be able to come, see the countryside and network with us. West Dorset is a really beautiful place to just set up an easel and paint. 

"It will be a nice creative space for artists who might not have it in their own homes."