A FORMER Coleg Ceredigion art and design student has successfully secured a job with one of the world’s leading art figures.

Sorcha Williams, who has just completed her masters degree in fine art at the prestigious Slade School of Art, is now embarking on a career as a painting assistant for the celebrated artist Damien Hirst.

Hirst, who is an entrepreneur, artist and art collector, made a name for himself in the mid-nineties as part of the YBAs (Young British Artists). He is now one of the leading figures in the art world and is reportedly the United Kingdom's richest living artist.

“I was pleased to be offered the post and the chance to use the skills learnt at Univeristy and college,” said Sorcha.

“I'm looking forward to working in a busy studio for a successful contemporary artist and to the new perspective this will give me to reflect back upon my own artwork.”

Julian Ruddock, art and design tutor at Coleg Ceredigion said: “I’m delighted by Sorcha’s success and it’s fantastic that she is continuing to excel in her career. This is a fantastic opportunity for her to work with someone as renowned and as acclaimed as Damien Hirst.”