A Baldock shop manager has become the unlikely subject of an acclaimed international artist.

The Comet: The Baldock gallery manager said the episode was 'surreal'The Baldock gallery manager said the episode was 'surreal' (Image: Archant)

Award winning artist Fabian Perez first cast eyes on Sally Liddle when her art gallery hosted a VIP event in May.

He was so overwhelmed by her beauty, he commissioned a series of paintings of her.

The English Rose collection – in reference to Sally’s blond hair and pale skin – is a step away from the Argentine artist’s usual work. Fabian is famed for his brooding figurative portraits of Latin American dancers.

Fabian said: “I have recently been inspired to paint a series of works around a woman I met in England who had a particular kind of European beauty, which is different from the darker, more sultry looks of my compatriots.”

The Comet: The English Rose collection is now on display in Sally's shopThe English Rose collection is now on display in Sally's shop (Image: Archant)

Sally was flown over to Fabian’s home in Los Angeles where she modelled for the first time in her life.

Sally, manager at Gallery 1066 on Hitchin Street, said: “This whole journey has been surreal and I still can’t quite believe the magnitude of what has happened.

“Fabian completely put me at ease and made me feel welcome with his colleagues and family in Hollywood.

“I really didn’t know how he would portray me on canvas and I am over the moon with the results.”

The limited edition collection is being showcased at Gallery 1066, 6A Hitchin Street, Baldock.