People of all ages came together at an Ipswich gallery to be inspired and to get creative.

Following a successful trial during the summer holiday, the Family Art Room made a come back this half term at Ipswich Museum and Art School Gallery and will now be a regular feature in Ipswich Museum’s family learning programme.

Dozens of children and parents turned out to get their hands dirty with Ipswich artist, Ky Rice.

The Family Art Room encourages families to take inspiration from the latest exhibitions, and to work with a practising artist to turn their ideas into a work of art.

Councillor Bryony Rudkin, portfolio holder for culture and leisure said: “The Family Art Room sessions are a great way for families to spend some really creative quality time together, exploring ideas and developing their artistic skills.

“We’re really pleased that it’s proving so popular, and we hope that the drop-in format means that more families are able to come in and see the museum collections and activities.”

The event is not only aimed at families, it can also be used for budding artists to build their skills and confidence for their future careers, as well as proving a valuable experience for the volunteers who help run the sessions.

Mark Barrett, Family Art Room volunteer, said: “With each passing volunteer placement I gain a lot of experience and confidence within my self and to provide a service to other people.”

He said in the future he wanted to study community arts at university and the Ipswich Art School Gallery had pointed him in the right direction.

The next Family Art Room sessions will be during the Easter holiday on April 1 and 8 and costs £3 per child and accompanying adults go free.

Families can drop in for around 45 minutes any time during the stated session times.