PAINTING could help to put people on the road to better health, according to contemporary artist Lorraine Hall, of Knutsford Road, Warrington.

"The process of painting is a relaxing technique which can help with emotional problems," said Lorraine, who is studying and researching the potential healing power of art.

Apart from this aspect of her work, Lorraine also aims to raise awareness of contemporary art in the town.

She will be having paintings in an exhibition coming up at the Museum's Community Gallery called "A Woman's Space" starting on February 14, and she is also setting up a one woman exhibition called "Essential" at a studio over Salsa in Bridge Street.

Lorraine has called the studio "The Spice Gallery" and if her two week exhibition there suggests there is a demand for contemporary art, she hopes she will be able to keep it going.

Lorraine will also be holding workshops there.

In the past, Lorraine has worked as a commercial artist, and in children's softwear. She also has a studio at Bridgefoot, and supplies her work to galleries around the country.

Fairytales and what she describes as the "subconscious" provide her with inspiration to work on eight to 10 pictures a week.

"I draw out feelings from inside," she said.

Lorraine has degrees in fine art and electronic graphics.

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