A FREE art exhibition was opened in Warrington town centre by local artist Paul Larkin.
He was joined by a number of guests including Warrington Wolves player James Harrison, and Caroline Williams, director of adult social care at the borough council.
During the event, Paul talked guests through his artwork and the focus of his pieces. The paintings on display were just a small sample of the vast amount of portraits he has created over the years.
Paul said: “My biggest inspiration is American rock guitarist, Jimi Hendrix, and I have created almost 5,000 art pieces that feature him.”
Paul said he uses painting as a form of mental health therapy and, for the past three years, has painted at least three to four paintings a day.
He and his wife, Sylvia, live in supported accommodation provided by the council.
As part of the exhibition, Paul has explains how he started painting – “best thing that ever happened to me.”
He has used it as a tool over the years to manage his mental health.
The council’s director of adult social care, Caroline Williams, said: “It’s been great to speak with Paul to understand more about his artwork and how it helps him in his daily life. His story about how art has become a form of mental health therapy is truly inspirational.”
The free art exhibition is on now at the Gateway on Sankey Street until Tuesday December 12.
