Kim BriscoeA former Lotus engineer has swapped cars for canvas and is finding success as a painter.When Christopher West took redundancy from the local car manufacturer four years ago, having worked for the firm for more than 30 years, he took the bold step to turn to watercolour painting.Kim Briscoe

A former Lotus engineer has swapped cars for canvas and is finding success as a painter.

When Christopher West took redundancy from the local car manufacturer four years ago, having worked for the firm for more than 30 years, he took the bold step to turn to watercolour painting.

His long career as an engineer has taught him the skills needed for accuracy, scale and dimensions.

The 59-year-old, who works out of his studio in Holmesdale Road, Brundall, said: 'My enthusiasm for art is driven through capturing the beauty of Norfolk and its wildlife.

'Norfolk has so much to offer and is such a spectacular county. With a historical city, fantastic coastline and a wonderful national park, sometimes I don't know where to start painting first.'

His artwork has now been brightening the walls of law firm Steeles Law, just off Hall Road.

Predominately a watercolour painter, Mr West's paintings are brought to life by his loose and free-flowing style, which allows him to focus on texture and light. His work can be seen in various galleries throughout Norfolk, while his unique commissions hang in hotels, public buildings and homes.

His picture of 'Erpingham Gate' was chosen to represent Norfolk on the BBC's Made in England website.

Mr West is the second artist to display his work Steeles Law firm's offices, following renowned oil, linocut and watercolour painter Ivy Smith.

Sarah Monk, marketing manager at Steeles Law, said: 'Supporting the local community is important to us, especially in the arts.

'We feel by offering exhibition space to artists like Christopher, they are able to display their art in a new environment, and expose it to a new audience.'

For further details on viewing times or on displaying artwork please contact Sarah Monk, marketing manager at Steeles Law, on 01603 598000 or email smonk@steeleslaw.co.uk.

t Have you undergone a dramatic career change? Contact Kim Briscoe on 01603 772419 or email kim.briscoe@archant.co.uk.