AN ARTIST who went behind the scenes at York Minster is showcasing a collection of paintings inspired by the work of the cathedral's carvers and masons.

The works, by Canadian artist Crystal Howie, are on view in the Chapter House Vestibule until September 30.

Keeping In Tradition is part of an ongoing project by Crystal who is hoping to spend more time studying the carvers' work, and producing more paintings.

Her paintings were inspired by an urge to find out what went on behind the walls of the Minster's Stoneyard.

Crystal, who came to York last year, spent a month with the carvers and masons, learning how they use traditional methods to shape the stone, and getting to know something of their passion for the work.

"It was a real privilege working alongside the carvers and masons.

"Not only are they extremely knowledgeable about stone carving and the Minster, but they are also eloquent and poetic," said Crystal.

"I observed chisels, mallets, and human bodies defiantly overcoming the resistance of the stone. I have incorporated the visual language of stonemasonry into my paintings - numbers scrawled in red on sides of stones become mugshot numbers, and golden scribbles become illuminated scripts."

Her paintings are displayed alongside work by the carvers, including weathered medieval pinnacles and the modern carvings that will replace them.

The exhibition also highlights the work that will be done by the carvers on the East Front, the next restoration project at York Minster.

It will cost £23 million to repair and restore the East Front.

To support the work, cheques, payable to York Minster Fund, should be sent to The Development Office, Church House, Ogleforth, York, Y01 7JN.

Updated: 10:14 Monday, August 29, 2005