A RYEDALE artist is opening an exhibition to raise awareness for mental health and promote art wellbeing.

Paula Seller, who taught drawing and painting through adult classes in Ryedale, is opening the exhibition entitled Light and Dark at Foxholes Library on November 2, from 10am to 4pm, and November 3, from 11am to 3pm.

Paula said: “I stopped teaching to help my parents, who both suffered with dementia. Sadly, my mother passed away in October 2018 which had a detrimental effect on my mental health. Throughout my struggle with mental health, specifically bipolar, my artwork has provided an emotional release, a therapeutic activity and assisted in making sense of my confused mind.”

Paula will showcase a small selection of her work and answer any questions. All proceeds will be donated to Next Steps, a Norton-based mental health charity.

She added: “Nearly all the work I have produced over my lifetime remains stacked in the attic gathering dust, so why not inspire others to use art as a therapeutic release. Next Steps has been a godsend to me since mum’s death, allowing me to meet friendly folk, and have the support of professional staff.”

It is free entry to the exhibition and refreshments will be available.