Visiting a local garden centre recently l could not help being attracted by a most unusual exhibition in their mini-gallery, which during the month of June, attracted scores of visitors.

This exhibition was by two Welham Green artists, who specialise in creating objects of art using locally grown straw.

Being an owner of pictures in straw, created over 200 years ago l was fascinated by how artistically this humble material could be used and how striking and effective their creations are.

The couple, Joe and his wife Graz, have been perfecting this art for over 30 years as a hobby but after closure of the factory where they were working at Welwyn Garden City, they found they had enough time to exploit their talent professionally.

A lot of hard work, enthusiasm and expertise has paid off. I could not believe what they achieved with the straw in creating their images. The whole collection is beautiful, unique and breathtaking.

The images in the pictures change with the light, so they look different at various times of the day. The straw is naturally shiny and reflects the light on the images.

The whole creation of the pictures goes through many processes including pressing the straw flat, colouring, scorching and permanently sticking to an appropriate background. Specially selected framing for every picture ensures each one is completely individual.

On the impressive pictures one can see flowers, galleons, country houses, buildings of worship, historic buildings and much more. The artists claim that even a private house could be recreated to order.

The straw used in the pictures does not fade or deteriorate as it has a tough and resilient surface making it almost everlasting like the ones l own. Straw is a natural bio-product yet to be discovered by many.

This art is completely unique, appreciated and treasured in homes throughout the world with the artists creations sold throughout Europe and the USA. I wish the couple great success as they really deserve it.