YOUNG artists in Barrhead let their creative skills go sky high when they designed a mural for Auchenback Resource Centre.

The surrealist 15ft artwork shows a host of stylised animals floating in the air.

Praise was heaped on the kids’ creativity when the mural, which takes pride of place in the centre’s main hall, was officially launched on Tuesday.

The artwork was produced by youngsters taking part in a project run by Impact Arts’ Creative Pathways project.

The launch also saw the youngsters exhibiting photography portfolios they have produced over the 10-week course.

These include photos of wildlife, fashion photography, special effects make-up and more abstract, artistic photography.

They also showcased their skills in digital manipulation by unveiling their so-called Panoramic Planets – showing Barrhead, Glasgow and Edinburgh skylines as they have never been seen before.

Caitlyn Price, 16, one of those involved, said: “It’s been brilliant to learn how to use the camera and all the different techniques and effects you can add.

“When we’ve been on trips for the project, I was always getting ideas for different angles and how the pictures would look. It makes you look at things in a new way.

“I loved working together with others in the group on the mural and can’t wait for it to be unveiled. We’re really proud of it.”

Creative Pathways, while involving artistic and creative workshops, also has a strong employability element. Participants receive advice on interviews, CV writing, and what is expected in the workplace.

Heather Gault, who is in charge of delivering the project for community arts charity Impact Arts, said: “We’ve been really impressed by the effort the young people have put in. They’ve tried their hand at techniques with photography and graphics that are completely new to them, and many have found in it a new passion.

“As we’ve seen the young people work together and learn new skills, we’ve also seen positive changes in them, whether it be in communication skills, teamwork or just in building a bit more confidence.

“These things are absolutely vital when giving young people that little boost when trying to find work. Giving them the opportunity to see their efforts valued and given pride of place at the mural unveiling is an added bonus.”

Creative Pathways in Barrhead is funded by Barrhead Housing Association, the Big Lottery, Inspiring Scotland, the Scottish Government and Our Bright Future.