And that gives us a chance to look at some keen enthusiasts with the brush closer to home.
Perhaps we got you on camera at a painting exhibition in South Shields Library.
Can you spot someone you know in a painting competition at Fellgate Primary School or do you recognise the pupils at Laygate Community School with their silk paintings?
Take a look and then get in touch to tell us more.
5. A special donation in 2012
These paintings were donated to the Oncology ward at South Tyneside District Hospital in 2012 and Chris Jennings was pictured taking a look with son Joe, 12, and daughter Lara, 8. Photo: Stu Norton
6. Jubilee memories
Former British Steel artist Ron Paxton who painted a picture for the Queen's Silver Jubilee in 1977. Who can tell us more about this 2015 scene? Photo: Tim Richardson
7. Getting creative in Laygate
Laygate Community School pupils taking part in Art Week in 2013. Who do you recognise in this photo? Photo: Tim Richardson
8. Prizes galore for these winners
A 1988 South Tyneside painting competition but can you recognise the winners pictured with judge Sheila Graber, third left? Photo: Shields Gazette