A new website has been set up to connect members of Norfolk's arts and crafts community.

Caper Art and Craft has been created by and for artists and gives people the chance to promote their work, share knowledge and learn from each other, and access useful tools and services.

The free website is open to all and has been created by Bob Payne, from Ashmanhaugh, Dick Lowery, from Taverham, and Keith Nash, from Roughton.

'We wanted to create this online community where you have a mixture of professional and amateur artists of all ages who come together online to share knowledge and help each other,' said Mr Nash.

'The feeling was that much more could be done to connect the members of art communities to galleries, customers, service providers, educational establishments and also to other members and in doing so, the membership would have a more rewarding experience, whether they were seeking commercial possibilities or creative fulfilment.'

The website has about 80 members, and Mr Nash said they were keen for more to join and for members to tell them how they would like the website to develop.

'Making good things happen and being far more than just an informative website is the key objective of this venture,' he said.

'Caper are calling on all artists, artisans, galleries and suppliers of arts and craft services in the region to join the site and to share in the benefits of membership.'

He added: 'One new feature of the site is Gallery Connect, where galleries can search for new talent and members can seek out gallery outlets. In the short time it has been live, some member artists have already been invited to exhibit with regional galleries.'

Mr Nash said Caper was organising its inaugural exhibition for members in association with the Fairhurst Gallery, in Norwich. The exhibition will run from August 15 to September 14. Find out more about Caper Art and Craft at www.caperac.co.uk

Do you have a story about the arts in Norwich? Email arts correspondent Emma Knights at emma.knights@archant.co.uk