A BARNSLEY artist became one of the first to take part in a special event this month.

A dedicated Pride of Yorkshire studio has opened at Meadowhall, where shoppers can watch artists hand-painting the sculptures, view designs up close and learn more about the project ahead of the trail’s launch this summer.

Visitors can stop and watch the artists at work throughout the day, with each visit offering a different glimpse as the blank sculptures gradually transform into finished artworks.

Among the first artists working in the space are Barnsley artist Adam Briscoe, creating a pair of lions celebrating Doncaster Rovers.

Adam specialises in hand-drawn architectural art and has risen in popularity over the last two years.

His previous works include a mural revealed at the Glass Works, which celebrates the past and present of Barnsley.

He has also completed eye-catching work at Barnsley Football Club and Worsbrough Mill, both of which have been praised highly.

The trail, which celebrates 150 years of Sheffield Children’s Hospital, will feature 150 large lion and lioness sculptures and 150 lion cubs displayed across Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham and Doncaster between June and September.

Cheryl Davidson, project lead for Pride of Yorkshire, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Meadowhall once again.

“They played a huge role in the success of Herd of Sheffield and Bears of Sheffield, and having them as presenting partner means even more families will be able to discover the trail.”