Young people on Skye and Raasay are being encouraged to take a good look at themselves following a series of photographic workshops led by accomplished photographic artist, Kenny Bean.

At the 'I.D.' workshops in Sleat, Portree, Broadford and on Raasay, participants studied their own individuality by developing close-up photographs showing the unique patterns of eyes, finger prints and palm line prints. The youngsters were then taught how to manipulate the images using special photo-chemical techniques as well as learning how to develop their own photos in a portable darkroom.

Kenny and his budding photographers then collated the snaps to make three large wall murals which are now on display at the An Tuireann Gallery in Portree.

Financial support for the 'I.D.' workshops has come from Skye and Lochalsh Enterprise (SALE), part of the Highlands and Islands Enterprise network, with a grant worth £1,250. Kenny was also awarded £1,700 from the Scottish Arts Council's Year of the Artist Award 2000 and The Highland Council have provided additional funding.

Edinburgh-based Kenny has worked with a wide variety of community based organisations across the United Kingdom and has won awards for several projects involving young people from both Scotland and Japan. He has also been involved with many photographic projects involving adults with learning difficulties.

Development manager at SALE, Jennifer Robertson said: "This project is an example of the type of youthful, exciting, community-based scheme that SALE is keen to encourage and assist. Kenny's workshops have helped to develop the creative skills of the youngsters who took part. The participants have particularly enjoyed the experience of viewing their own work and having others admire it within the setting of a professional gallery."

The 'Eye-Eye' exhibition can be viewed at the An Tuireann Gallery, Portree until Saturday 17th February.