AN inspiring exhibition of paintings is on display in the Museum of Dartmoor Life after a special opening last Thursday.

A collection of art created by service users at the Puzzle Tree day service have been put up on display in the museum.

Puzzle Tree supports adults with learning disabilities, and they have been working with artist Anna Georghiou, who led a project giving people of all abilities the opportunity to learn about and experience creating art.

The project, a Creative Touchstones Initiative, has been supported by funding from Okehampton Lions and Okehampton United Charity. It has allowed participants to create their own unique paintings and a larger group canvas artwork.

Anna Georghiou, the artist leading the project, said: 'It has been a brilliant project. It's been a really amazing experience for me, helping to draw out ideas and give people the chance to develop their ideas and their art.

'I used to work as a carer, and this sort of project is something I would like to continue to do. People don't realise the ability of those with learning disabilities. They have a great use of colour and shape, and they have so much to offer.'

The artists have gained their inspiration from visits to the Museum of Dartmoor Life and Simmons Park, as well looking at the work of artists, such as Vincent van Gogh, Glyn Hughes and Asger Jorn.

As part of the project, the entire group contributed to a group canvas painting, depicting Simmons Park. As part of the work, the painters each looked at different elements of the park, from the Okement river winding its way to the park, Chalet Treloar and the park's flowers and foliage.

Anna expressed her thanks to Okehampton Lions, Okehampton United Charity, musician and artist Phil Bird and Vicky Hooper from Puzzle Tree for all their support throughout the project.

The exhibition is in the John Young Gallery at the Museum of Dartmoor Life and runs until Monday, July 16. All are welcome.