A NEW “unique and diverse” exhibition celebrating the work of 20 artists with different disabilities has opened at a mill art gallery.
The .artmaker exhibition at Sunny Bank Mills Gallery in Farsley features artists from the Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre in Knaresborough.
Workshops at the centre allow people living with a range of disabilities to discover their artistic talents and put them into practice.
The exhibition has been organised by Natalie Kolowiecki and Sonia Moran of the gallery in conjunction with Shaeron Caton Rose and Sharon Hockin of Henshaws.
Sonia added: “The Art Makers are at the core of this exhibition, with more than 20 artists with different disabilities. Their work is as unique and diverse as they are. The gallery is now filled with bright colours, expressive shapes and intricate details with pieces ranging from a rainbow 3D robot to colourful paintings to delicate layered collages.”
She added: “This exhibition aims to dispel myths, challenge stereotypes, share stories and celebrate creativity.”
Henshaws is a northern charity supporting people living with disabilities to go beyond expectations.
As well as the Arts and Crafts Centre, Henshaws runs a specialist college in Harrogate and a range of community services to support people with sight loss to live more independently.
Sharon Hockin, from Henshaws, said of the exhibition: “I have no words to describe how fantastic it is to see the work in such a beautiful contemporary gallery space. The exhibition is truly joyful. The art makers themselves are excited and we are sharing information and media posts but travelling over for many of them is not possible due to funding and finance issues.”
The Art Makers featured are Ann Swift, Andrew Morrison, Simon Haw, Andrew Copley, Graham Borkett, Julie H, Abbey Northers, Clare Sapherson, Celeste Rowe, Holly Fiddes, Jenna Foster, Abbie Dyer, Jacob Pulman, Jess Parkinson, Andy Hall, Vicky Pinder, Mark Wilson, Wesley Moffatt, Paul Fowler, Oliver Fawcett, Adam Flanagan, Natasha Garland and Dolly.
Andrew Copley, who has been attending Henshaws for the past 15 years, said: “I am inspired by all that I see, but particularly nature. I draw from my imagination recalling places, wildlife, monuments and memories. Many people comment that they can see I love life and find humour in my colourful work. My love of colour also spills over into my mosaic work as well.”
The exhibition runs until Friday, December 23. For more information about the exhibition visit sunnybankmills.co.uk.
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