Young people from North Ayrshire with experience of the care system will unveil a unique art exhibition at Irvine’s Townhouse on Thursday, February 28.

A total of 30 people aged 14-25 have been working with the charity Impact Arts as part of the Express Yourself project since May 2018, creating photography, sculpture and textiles with the theme of ‘home and belonging’.

Visitors to the free exhibition will be able to watch the young people working on a piece of art live on the day.

The scheme, a partnership between Impact Arts and North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Throughcare team, offers free tuition in creative techniques to care experienced young people.

The group has been taking part in workshops at Impact Arts and Redburn Community Centre, led by visual artist and community worker Laura Frood.

Councillor Robert Foster, Cabinet Member for North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “This exhibition will be a great chance for the participants to showcase their work and help to break down some of the stereotypes that sadly still exist about care experienced young people.”

As well as digital photography and editing workshops, the group have learned techniques in furniture upcycling, metalwork and woodworking, and taking inspiration from conceptual artists and creating solid sculptures from fabric and cloth.

One of the Express Yourself participants, said: “In this project we have tried to break the stereotypes of care experienced young people, which has given me much more confidence.

“Working with Laura has increased my confidence in my capabilities – she is constantly challenging our imagination and helping us to create our visions.”

The Express Yourself event will run from 2.30- 5pm and is open to all. Admission is free. Call Arts on 0141 575 3001 or email mail@ impactarts.co.uk.