An award-winning north-east artist is helping to foster the next generation of talent.
Nicole Porter has agreed to judge a drawing competition open to all schools across the region.
It will include pupils from primary five to sixth year of secondary school.
The 100 best entries will be displayed at the Haddo Art Festival in October next year when a winner will be selected from each age group.
The competition is being run through the David and June Gordon Memorial Trust, a group committed to arts, community, and youth organisations in north-east Scotland.
Ms Porter, who grew up in Ellon, said she was thrilled to be taking part.
“I believe that drawing is the key to all creativity as it provides a tool to work through ideas and develop an artistic ability,” she said.
“I was delighted to have the chance to inspire others in something I am so passionate about.
“A lot of youngsters get in touch to say that they wish they could draw like me, so I see this as a great opportunity to encourage them to pick up a pencil and start drawing.”
Ms Porter, who had a portrait of the Queen accepted into the Royal collection at Buckingham Palace earlier this year, is also opening a new exhibition of her own work on December 5 in her art gallery on King Street.
Youngsters taking part in the competition who are looking for inspiration are encouraged to come along.