ARTIST Jacob Davy is exhibiting abstract paintings at Mowbray Community Church, Harrogate, while being supervised by probation after receiving a community order for assault in the wake of difficulties with mental illness.

Jacob has returned to his passion for art and painting on being given the rehabilitation order, and now, with the help of the Humberside, Lincolnshire and North Yorkshire Community Rehabilitation Company, he is seeking to make a full-time living from his art.

He is investing in a new website too, supported by his parents, friends, professionals and the Mowbray Community Church community.

"I studied fine art at university but never graduated due to personal issues but I have always painted – it’s just something I have to do," says Jacob. "Working with the team at HLNY CRC has helped me to focus on what I really want to do and now I have an opportunity to showcase my work and hopefully make a living from my passion.”

Jacob paints on a variety of materials, such as canvas, wood and doors, and is inspired by the natural world, the jazz art of the 1940s and 1950s, street art and oriental calligraphy.

Jacob’s case manager, Claire Elsworth, says: "Jacob has really progressed since we began working with him and he has gained in confidence through support of the team around him. Expressing himself through art has helped him find a new focus and given him a purpose.

“When Jacob, who has more than 100 pieces of art in his portfolio, showed us his work we introduced him to a number of community organisations who could help support his ambition to earn an income from his art.”

Mowbray Community Church evangelist Peter Ingham enthuses: “Jacob is a very talented artist and it is our pleasure to support him in presenting his art, which has attracted a lot of attention within the church."

The exhibition run is being extended to November 30 and afterwards Jacob hopes to secure future shows at other churches and bars in Harrogate. The church, in East Parade, is open daily; if you need more information on the exhibition, contact Peter Ingham on 07768 753691.