HE might have packed up his paints and easels for the colder climes of Norway, but local artist Arthur Adamson says that St Helens is in his blood.

Following a successful exhibition in Norway, Arthur who had a studio in the Catapult Centre in the George Street quarter emigrated last December.

The St Helens artist, who is known for his experimental use of paints and canvasses, says he has found inspiration for his work in the stunning scenery.

He said: "I came to Norway by accident or by destiny, depending on your point of view. But whatever the reason, I feel I belong here.

"Norway is a forgotten paradise and an artist's dream come true. It is a land of adventure, a place of magic and a landscape for the imagination.

Now living in Balestrand, popular with artists such as Yoko Ono and David Hockney, Arthur has already attracted media attention for one breathtaking mural.

The commissioned work, his largest piece of art to date, shows two porpoises leaping from a fjord.

Arthur explained how he captured the stunning image.

"Some nights the water is completely pink in colour as if it's made of pure pink paint. It has to be seen to be believed.

"I tried to capture this 'pink water' phenomenon in my huge porpoise painting and I think this has helped it to be very positively received and has led to more commissions."

He said he has been filled with a new energy since leaving home.

"For the first time I feel I am in the right place at the right time and it is so exciting to be at the beginning of a new adventure in my life.

"All I can say is watch this space. I have some fantastic projects lined up, which are going to blow the lid of this world," he said confidently.

However he insists St Helens has not seen the last of him. "It's not goodbye to St Helens, only farewell.

"One of the things I want to do is establish links between St Helens and Norway in some way. People here are interested about the town where I come from, but I don't think they quite understand the rules of rugby, no matter how hard I try to explain."