FORMER Westmorland Gazette journalist Helen Perkins is staging her first solo art exhibition.

Helen’s selection of figurative paintings and drawings are on display from tomorrow (Tuesday, July 7) at the New Moon restaurant on Kendal’s Highgate until September 1.

Kendal-based Helen, who worked as a reporter at the Gazette for three years, started training in oil painting 18 months ago.

The gifted 27-year-old said her exhibition was a great chance to see how far her work had developed so far.

“I’ve painted and drawn since I was very small,” explained Helen. “And about two years ago I decided it was ridiculous to ignore something I really loved.

“My work focuses on portraits because I am naturally curious about people. People who are often pretty inspirational.

“I treat each of my paintings as an honest enquiry, a bit like an interview, but in paint.”

“My painting has come on a long way since I started, because of the hours I have put in and the help of Royal Portrait Society member Sam Dalby, who has helped train me.”

Helen’s impressive work has a realistic style, which she creates with techniques borrowed from the old masters. She takes down her drawings in pencil while her subject is sat in front of her, and later transfers her lines onto canvas and develops these into oil paintings. She works in layers to build up light and colour.

For further information visit www.helenperkins.co.uk.