Local artist Caroline Borland returned to the Harbour Arts Centre this week alongside talented Welsh painter and textile artist Karen Teal, with their latest display of works.

Titled ‘Landmarks’, the duo’s new exhibition opened on Thursday, May 12, at the HAC’s main galleries.

With free entry, the works will then be on display until Saturday, June 24.

Featuring a series of abstract, landscape paintings and textural pieces, the exhibition gives visitors a chance to have a moment of peace as they immerse themselves in the calming works on display.

Karen said: “It’s great to be teaming up with Caroline – a good friend of mine and fellow artist, and we are excited to display our latest works at the HAC.

“This is my first time displaying my work at the HAC, however I have heard great things from Caroline who has previously exhibited in Irvine’s vibrant and welcoming arts venue.

“Together, we hope to take people on a journey of escapism with our new exhibition…

“This collection of art works is an exploration of marks found both in and of the land, as made by humans and the forces of nature. It is about the shaping of the land itself, and marks left by it or rather, elements of it such as rusting, decay and erosion.”

Irvine Times: By Karen TealBy Karen Teal (Image: NAC)

Caroline added: “It’s great to be back at the HAC, they are always so supportive of artists and the community. This exhibition is an acknowledgement of the personal landmarks – the challenges and successes that we, the artists, have experienced and that have influenced and shaped our individual creative journeys and led us to where we are now.

“It's great to see mine and Karen’s hard work coming to fruition and I hope our exhibition and events will not only inspire others to get out and about and enjoy our beautiful part of Ayrshire, but also encourage folk to get creative in their own way. It’s fantastic for health and wellbeing.”

Caroline and Karen will be offering a series of meet-the-artist sessions and workshops as part of their exhibition. Email harbourarts@north-ayrshire.gov.uk to find out more.

They will also be hosting an event as part of Mental Health Awareness Week, where the artists will be offering a 'mindful creativity workshop' on Sunday, May 21, from 10am – 3pm.

This will include short mindfulness sessions and art activities such as mark making, printmaking and making collage artworks, simple folded artist books and cards. Spaces are limited, to book a space please visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/harbour-arts-centre

Irvine Times: The exhibition poster

Council leader, Marie Burns said: "The council’s arts and culture team are delighted to welcome Caroline and Karen back to the Harbour Arts Centre.

"It is great to see local artists hosting an exhibition in the town and we hope as many people as possible take the opportunity to enjoy their work at this free event.”

Entry is free and the exhibition will be on display until Saturday, June 24. Please give the team at the HAC a call on 01294 274059 to check opening times.

Aspiring artists, creative practitioners and interested visitors keen in learning more about the creative process and inspirations of the ‘Landmark’ exhibition are also invited to the upcoming series of informal ‘Meet the Artist’ sessions, taking place at the HAC.

Saturday June 3 and 17 (11am-2pm) – meet Caroline Borland.

Wednesday June 14 and 21 (10am-1pm) – meet Karen Teal.