'Suzanne's Journey' is the first art exhibition to be hosted at Berwick Infirmary and includes about 40 watercolour paintings by members of OpenArt.

It is part of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust's 'Healing Arts Programme' which uses art as a therapeutic medium to improve the hospital environment for patients, visitors and staff.

The permanent exhibition, which is displayed throughout the hospital, was opened by Alyson Raine, operational services manager for Berwick Infirmary and other community hospitals, on Tuesday, December 15, with members of OpenArt.

Steve Russell, trust director responsible for community hospitals, said: "I'm delighted to have been able to work with OpenArt to bring this exhibition to Berwick Infirmary.

"It is the first display of paintings we have had there and it brightens up the hospital environment for our patients, their visitors and our employees. I hope everyone enjoys the exhibition and thank you to all the artists for all their hard work."

OpenArt was formed more than a year ago as an offshoot of OpenMic which was set up to enable young people to learn, and often write, their own music. It is for people with an interest in art, whatever their age or ability, and is led by Kate Stephenson, of Duddo.

The group meets on the second Sunday of the month at The Maltings in Berwick at 7.30pm.

The group has previously displayed work in the Gymnasium Gallery in Berwick.

Michael Richardson, who formed OpenMic, said: "I am delighted with the way in which the OpenArt and OpenMic sessions have developed.

"Displaying the art within the hospital, which we hope will make people's visit more pleasant, once again demonstrates by Berwick people working together what a fantastic town we live in.

"Please come to visit the exhibition and come to the OpenArt and OpenMic sessions at The Maltings and join in."
For more information about OpenArt and OpenMic, contact Michael on 07970 701611.

If you would more information about displaying art throughout the Trust, contact Brenda Longstaff on (0191) 203 1354.