A brand-new art event at Rhos-y-gilwen has a dual purpose - to celebrate the vibrancy of the artistic scene in Wales and to promote environmental awareness.

Bringing together work and classes of more than 40 prominent Welsh artists, the ART AT weekend promises plenty to see and do for budding artists and enthusiasts during a jam packed two days on Saturday, June 7th, and Sunday, June 8th.

Viewing the exhibitions before taking a wander through Rhos-y-gilwen's beautifully maintained gardens would be a pleasure in itself, but for those who want to take part, there will also be a range of creative activities to try out and enjoy.

The weekend includes artist masterclasses in life drawing, printing, painting and sculpture; workshops in handmade books, weaving, and willow sculpture; a raku firing, children's activities run by Small World Theatre, live music and performance which all take place in and around the mansion and the oak frame concert hall, from 10am until 6pm throughout the weekend.

On Saturday, artist Elizabeth Haines will be holding a workshop giving people the opportunity to experiment with watercolour, inks, gouache and acrylic, designed to challenge and animate ways of using these water-based media.

Those who want to take part will need to bring some materials with them, such as paper, paints and brushes and early booking is also recommended.

Well-known print maker Susan Sands will be holding a workshop on both days and giving the perfect opportunity to have a go at monoprinting without a press. Her colourful prints and inspiring workshops are always very popular.

Both these masterclasses cost £25 (or £20 concessions) and can be booked by calling Pauline Latham on 01239 612580.

Glenn Ibbitson will be holding life drawing classes on both days. To book, ring 01559 370276 or e-mail smokingbrush@ btinternet.com Alternatively, why not try your hand a sculpture with Perryn Butler? Perryn's sculptures are also currently on show at Nant-y-Coy Arts, Treffgarne Gorge, Haverfordwest. But if looking is not enough, her masterclass will give people the chance to either carve a single block or construct and carve a big sculpture, individually or as a team. Prices are £30 for one day, £50 for two days. To book a place, ring Perryn on 01437 767869 or e-mail sculpture@perrynbutler.com ART AT's element of environmental education is intended to be open-minded, creative, thought-provoking and motivational. The organisers hope visitors will take something home with them - not necessarily an object, but certainly an inspiration.

In conjunction with ART AT, Rhos-y-gilwen is running its annual Art Olympics, with a £250 prize for the winner. To apply to take part in the Art Olympics, contact Glen Peters at rhosygilwen@btconnect.com.

Artists on show include: Paintings: Andie Clay, Angie Teiger, Annette de Mestre, Carole King, Catrin Webster, Christine Kinsey, Claire Rose, David Tress, Diana Heeks, Elizabeth Haines, Geoff Yeomans, Glenn Ibbitson, Hugo Colville, Ilona Bayley David, Iwan Dafis, Mary Lloyd Jones, Penny Jones, Peter Rossiter, Philippa Sibert, Susan Sands, Tracy Thompson, Trisha McParlin, Pauline Latham, Liz Cox, John Sharkey, Jo Shapland, Sarah Sharp and Tricia Phillips.

Sculpture: Denis Curry, Ed Harrison, Martin White, Sophie Wellan, Toby Downing.

Ceramics: Angharad Taris, Ashraf Hanna, James Campbell, Les Ford, Roger Guy-Young, Rosemarie Barr, Sue Hanna and Sally Richmond.

Batik: Wendy Evans.

Jewellery: Rachel Shiamh and Sara Lloyd Morris.

Making books: Penny Jones.

Installation: Peter Bodenham.

Children's activities: Small World Theatre.