One of Lichfield’s most talented artists recently gave an insight into the world of professional fashion photography to local residents during a workshop funded by Tesco.

"We are delighted with both the response from the people who took part and must commend both Rebecca Parker and also Peter Walker for devising and delivering an outstanding array of workshops with the funding provided by Tesco" Tony Fletcher (Tesco Corporate Affairs)

Rebecca Parker is a leading light in modern photography, whose work graces the front covers of many significant national and international publications. The project, based on research into Lichfield’s eminent polymath, Erasmus Darwin, saw Rebecca run a series of studio based workshops with NCFE Photography Students from South Staffordshire College. The workshops addressed issue of composition, lighting and computer editing.

'We are delighted that such an opportunity has been given to part time evening class learners, the take up has been excellent. We look forward to some of their work being exhibited later on in the Summer'. Sophie Cartwright Curriculum Manager Art and design (SSC)

“Rebecca's workshops have been a great success. Rebecca has shown the students her working process, giving insight into some professional tricks and finishes. Students have learnt how to produce artistic but realistic composite images, in a style inspired by Pre-Raphaelite paintings” Richard Pickup Tutor SSC

The project also saw students kindly allowed to access Erasmus Darwin House, for an evenings photography, with Rebecca and her special guest, photography consultant Patrick Anderson, the official photographer for Zandra Rhodes turned up to help students photograph the professional models Eva Rose and Karenza from Liverpool and Lincoln.

‘ I appreciate the effort you went to in order to give us the opportunity of gaining more experience and knowledge of working with some 'proper' models. “Dave (student)

"I had so much fun last night! I took about 60 images and I am really pleased with the way they have turned out! Cant wait to get stuck in and editing them. " Zara (Student)

Rebecca has also conducted another photo shoot herself at Darwin House, with Port Talbot based model Amelia Kate Thomas who is one of the current contests on the Living TV show Britain Next Top Model. Amelia was very impressed with how beautiful Lichfield is she posed for Rebecca in costume from the Museum’s collection. Rebecca is currently working on the results of this shoot and the final work alongside images from students involved in the project can be seen at an art exhibition at Darwin House on the 21st August.

“.....for the evening of the photo shoot the Gardens here at Erasmus Darwin House were transported back to Georgian times. Beautifully costumed, elegant ladies appearing from behind the scented roses and purple lavenders. It really was breath taking.' Erasmus Darwin house Spokesman,

The project and exhibition are one of a number of art based workshops projects and exhibitions in the city over the next 4 months of art which have been funded by Tesco.

Peter Walker Project Coordinator “ Its great to expose to the city a talent that lives hear but works around the country, and to allow local people to work with her and to learn elements of her trade. Everyone is excited about the final work she will produce and we hope people will come and see it on the 21st August at Darwin House”.