Local artists showcase their work

Pathways day services, which is jointly run by Kirklees Council and South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust and provides day services for people with mental health problems, held a unique arts exhibition on Wednesday entitled "Print Out". The event showcased the creative achievements of people who have participated in various workshops and activities run by the service over the past year.

The workshops and activities aimed to encourage people to get creative and have a go at new things and were facilitated by Pathways staff in conjunction with women’s charity, Women’s Space. Local arts organisations including DIVA (Development Initiatives for Voluntary Arts) and West Yorkshire Print Workshop were also involved.

On display at the exhibition were a selection of digital photographs, creative writing samples, batik, silk painting, pottery and, various print techniques on canvas.

Pauline Cunningham, who attended the digital photography workshop said, "I’ve loved every part of the digital photography group and it has really helped me on the road to recovery. I’m really proud of the end product, but the journey towards achieving it has been just as important."

Social worker Matt Ellis, who helped organise the event said "The creative arts exhibition "Print Out" was the perfect opportunity for people who use our services here at Pathways to show off their work and feel proud of their achievements. Taking part in the creative workshops has been a real boost to many of the participants’ self esteem and sense of well being. Having their work on display for all to see is a great way of celebrating that."