PAINTING, printing and jewellery making will be on display next month as an art studio hosts an open exhibition and Christmas Fair to raise money for a York-based mental health charity.

Bar Lane Studios, on Micklegate,York, will be showcasing a selection of artists, including painters, jewellers and Batik artists to raise money for the charity, Mind, in a bid to help more people suffering from mental health problems to express their issues.

The charity also helps individuals with social inclusion and integration so people can get back into learning, volunteering or employment.

The festive event, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday November and 4, will allow members of the public an opportunity to see original artwork, and speak to the artists about their work.

There will also be a late night shopping preview on Friday, November 2 from 5.30pm-9pm.

Bar Lane team leader of The Hungry Artist York Art Community, Mila Romans said: “There's a lot of stigma that comes with mental health problems.

“Art forms are an incredibly powerful healing tool and way to talk about issues such as anxiety and depression, share experiences and altogether raise awareness of mental health issues.”

Currently, one in four people will experience some mental health issue throughout their life.

Mrs Romans said: “With mental health it is important to help people open up and share their personal experiences with no judgement.”

Volunteer, Lauren Terry, who has participated in the event for three years said: “People seem to really enjoy getting a peak behind the scenes into an artist’s world.

“We at Bar Lane love to talk about what we do and share our art. I spend enough time by myself, it’s great to have new faces in my studio for a change.”

Mrs Terry added that producing pieces of work that will raise money for charity makes her work rewarding.

She said: “It’s our aim as an artistic community to provide a positive environment where artists of all mediums can express themselves. It makes us feel great.

“It is also fantastic way to pick up some unique Christmas Gifts while supporting a worthy cause.

“Each artist will also be contributing artwork which can be won in the weekends charity raffle.”

For more information please on the event please contact Lauren Terry on 07972 470841.