THERE was an international flavour to this year's Cullen Big Community Paint Out when guests from across the pond were welcomed.

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After debuting last year, there was a welcome return for the event, which was organised and run by Cullen Art Group recently.

There was a tweak to the previous format which had seen artists invited to let their creative talents flow at one of three locations dotted around the town. However, this time participants were invited to choose their own spot.

As well as people from the local area, the event attracted people from Fochabers, Crovie and, amazingly, a couple on holiday from Washington State in America.

Maggie Milne, from Washington State, told Big Paint Out organisers: "Your event culminated everything I had hoped to experience in Scotland – warmth of the land and the people, a work of my hands, abundant colour in relation to life and joy!

"I cannot thank you enough!"

One of the hottest days of the year added to experience for those taking part, with painting time running from 10am through to 3pm. Participants could use as little or as much of this time as they wished.

On hand to give hints, tips and assistance if required were Wendy Hay, who has a BA in Fine Art and teaches art at Speyside High School, and experience Cullen Art Group member John Rose.

All the paintings will be displayed at Cullen Art Group's annual exhibition which runs from Thursday to Sunday, August 10-13.

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