THOUSANDS of art enthusiasts are expected to flock to the third Oxford International Art Fair in the coming week.

The dreaming spires of Oxford make the perfect backdrop for the biggest collection of contemporary art to be brought together from Friday.

Oxford Town Hall will host the weekend event which brings with it more than 150 artists from around the world, including 35 from the county.

Organiser Joelle Dinnage of the Global Art Agency has said she is anticipating more than 10,000 art lovers through the doors over the weekend.

Exhibiting his work this year is artist Mark Thomas, from Bicester.

He said: "I do a lot of scientific fantasy as a bit of a hobby but I am trying to do it for work as well.

"It is mainly paintings of creatures or mystical beasts, but I do them quite colourful and bright so they are recognisable.

"This is the first time I will be exhibiting at the fair and it is quite exciting because it is quite different as it is international.

"I went along last year and it was very impressive and very professionally done.

"It is great to bring together both locals artists and people from abroad."

The art fair will run through three halls, showing a variety of works by international exhibitors.

Tickets can be bought at the Museum of Oxford, at the Town Hall or online at oxfordinternationalartfair.com