Two young artists from the Highlands have joined forces as they stage a combined showcase of jewellery and fine art - the first of its kind in the area . Angus Grant and Andrew McIntosh are bringing a taste of Scotland's creative talent to Grantown-on-Spey, Strathspey, making it accessible for all.

The week long exhibition at the Highland Mori Museum, Grantown-on-Spey (June 5 – 11, 2006) features unusual and eye catching jewellery made from a combination of Sterling Silver and semi-precious stones, and a wide range of original paintings and prints of both well know landscapes and hidden beauty spots from around Scotland.

The jewellery on offer features stunning fashion pieces from trendy necklaces to delicate and intricate bangles, from elegant yet funky earrings in colours such as iridescent peacock to more subtle pieces. Grant is unveiling his new 'Labraborite' range at the exhibition and also introducing dichroic glass as a material for the first time. In addition, a limited collection of one off pieces will be on sale.

Fine art paintings from around Scotland will be on show, including beauty spots local to the Highlands such as Laggan, Cromarty Firth and Loch Pityoulish. Painted representationally, McIntosh uses a combination of traditional and contemporary techniques to build up texture and layers.

Having spent time in Edinburgh and over a year preparing for the exhibition, McIntosh's passion for architecture is apparent in his intricate cityscapes, which are also for sale along with limited edition prints of the most popular scenes.

Both artists have held a variety of independent exhibitions throughout Scotland; however, this is the first time they have linked up for a joint venture.

Grant and McIntosh met at the age of five, when they both attended Grantown Primary School. Growing up together they swapped creative ideas and both went on to study arts related courses. Just a few short years later they independently went into business for themselves with a focus on jewellery design and fine art paintings respectively.

Welcoming the partnership and exhibition, Grant said: "Having known each other for over 20 years and developed in our respective creative arenas it seemed the obvious next step for us to join forces. We're both passionate about Scotland, especially Strathspey and have drawn much inspiration from the area, which is clearly evident in Andrew's paintings."

McIntosh commented: "By working together at this early stage in our careers we hope to attracted people from across the country interested in original and eye catching jewellery and also fine art paintings and prints. The concept behind a joint exhibition is to bring the best of Scottish artistic and design talent to one place, making it more accessible for all".

The exhibition is being held daily 1-7pm, Highland Mori Museum (Japanese Pagoda), Grantown-on-Spey, June 5 – 11, everyone is welcome and admission is free.

For more information about the art on display log onto www.angusgrantjewellery.com   and  www.amcintosh.co.uk