A new shop and crafts workshop space has opened in the centre of Warwick, offering local people the chance to get creative.

Ursula Westwood has realised a long-held ambition to open her own shop, after over two decades of teaching art and felt-making classes and selling her own work. 

Ursula has opened 'Create' on Smith Street, providing a space to show and sell her artwork, and for people to come and learn new skills.

Explaining the concept, the mother-of-two told Nub News: "I have called it Create because it defines simply what I and other people do in the space.''

Creating an instant workshop venue and shop, with an artist's studio and gallery all rolled into one was the initial idea. 

And just a few weeks since opening, Ursula said she has already had a very positive response.

''People have walked in and have been really interested in the whole idea!" she explained.

"Tourists and locals have come in to find out what I do, and they love the bright and vibrant space."

Ursula has already had a very positive response since opening Create (image via Create)

"Time spent doing art and crafts is really important for people's wellbeing, and I want to bring people to my workshops so they can relax and enjoy some much needed time getting away from screens and have fun developing their creative skills, at very reasonable prices.''

Ursula is collecting enquiries from people to understand what workshops and classes people really want to do within the space.

"They may want a particular art class or to develop their skills in some way," she explained.

"From being a total beginner to an experienced artist there will be something for everyone! I can and have taught all ages, so this shop is for everyone!" 

The shop will be available for felt making workshops, craft workshops, art classes, birthday parties, and get togethers. 

Ursula first began teaching felt-making workshops in 2001, and has organised events across the West Midlands, working at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for around five years, as well as running sessions in local National Trust properties and at Warwick School. 

'Create enables people to get together and enjoy some creative time!' (image via Create)

While Create will be used for her to run workshops and sell her artwork, key to the idea is that other artists come and run their own classes, and sell their work there also.

Create can comfortably accommodate workshops of up to 12 people, and workshops are advertised on Ursula's Facebook page, and in the shop window.

Following enquiries she will have a mailing list with events and workshops advertised.

Workshops will be held mostly on Saturday mornings, art classes on Tuesday nights, and workshops during the school holidays. Other classes will be available with other artists too.

A timetable is planned.

Create has enough space to host workshops for around 12 people (image via Create)

Ursula said it is exciting to bring something different to the centre of Warwick. 

"I have met some lovely people," she said.

"I want people to use their local shops and businesses. 

"Picturesque is opposite so people can buy their art materials there. 

"And if people are coming to the workshops they can head to the different cafes locally first which is great too. The shop also has facilities which makes it a perfect venue for children's parties. 

"Create enables people to get together and enjoy some creative time!"

To find out more about Create, head to the Facebook page here.