A Highgate life drawing teacher has been selected to take part in a live art performance exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery.

Tanja Hassel, from Southwood Avenue, was phoned out of the blue by agents working with Beijing-based artist Liu Bolin.

Mr Liu admired Ms Hassel’s colourful paintings so much he invited her to blend him into a background by painting his clothes and body at the Saatchi Gallery’s START 2017 art fair.

“When I found out I had been picked, I thought I would burst with excitement. I am hopeful this opportunity will help me to grow as an artist,” Ms Hassel, 33, said.

The artist began the first of five live performances in front of VIP guests yesterday.

Ms Hassel, who teaches life drawing at Facebook’s Euston Road HQ, also runs a drawing group at The Boogaloo pub in Archway Road.