BUDDING artists drew inspiration from one of the art world’s greats to create their own northern masterpieces.

Talented youngsters at The Valley School in Astley Bridge were so taken with the work of Lowry they have created their own industrial landscape of terraced houses, smoky factories and walking figures.

The Salford artist was famous for his matchstick men, and his paintings now sell for several millions of pounds.

Children found out about the artist form teachers before taking a trip to The Lowry Centre in Salford Quays, where they saw some of his world-famous paintings in the special Lowry Exhibition.

For many children it was the first time they had been to an art gallery.

Teacher Nicole Topham said: “They observed, sketched and observed some more and I was amazed at how mesmerised they were by the paintings. They returned to the classroom really keen to sketch and paint in the style of Lowry.

“They’re only six or seven but they’ve really captured the spirit of a hunched figure rushing in the crowd or a faceless man walking his spindly dog.”

The youngsters’ work is now on display around the school.

They learned about Lowry as part of an ongoing history project looking at famous people from the past.

Mrs Topham added: “Children learn best when exploring through first-hand experience and it’s lovely to put their best efforts on display for parents, visitors and other pupils of the school. It makes them feel like real artists.”

Aishah Munshi, aged seven, said: “The Lowry trip was a fun day but I learned a lot at the same time. I’ve really enjoyed drawing matchstick men like Lowry did.”

Habib Din, aged seven, added: “Going to The Lowry was awesome. I wanted to keep one of the paintings and keep it forever, it was so colourful.”

Fatima Ali, aged six, said: “Lowry’s paintings showed people’s lives. I like the Bolton one best because it was about our town.”