Artist celebrates her first exhibition at The Larder

Carole Harwood's first exhibition has gone on display at The Larder. Pic Lisa Brown — Carole Harwood’s first exhibition has gone on display at The Larder. Pic Lisa Brown

A colourful exhibition has gone on display at The Larder. A Floral Affair is Carole Harwood’s first exhibition and features an array of cheery flower-filled canvases and pour-paint creations. We went along to the launch of Carole’s exhibition to find out more.

“This is the first time I have done anything like this,” said Carole, sitting in The Larder surrounded by her family, friends and uplifting artwork.

The talented creative from Preston started painting during the pandemic, “I have always been very crafty, making fairy gardens and figurines from clay and crocheting most of my adult life, but during lockdown, I decided to try something new.”

Carole Harwood's exhibition A Floral Affair is on display at The Larder. Pic Lisa Brown — Carole has enjoyed stepping out of her comfort zone and trying something new. Pic Lisa Brown

Stepping out of her comfort zone, Carole began experimenting with pour painting.

“I loved it!” said Carole. “Nothing was safe from my messy new hobby, including my curious cat who was often seen sporting glamourous colours on his tail and his feet!”

Furthering her knowledge via YouTube and social media, Carole continued, creating hundreds of canvases as well as her own special mix of pour paint. Carole started to add embellishments and decorating the pour-paint images, some of which are on display in the exhibition.

Carole’s creations also inspired her young granddaughter, Amelia. Together, they began creating pieces of art, with one of Amelia’s paintings going on display at Carole’s exhibition.

“She’s extremely artistic,” said Carole. “She loves painting, colour and making things.”

Carole began experimenting with paint during lockdown. Artwork by Carole Harwood.

After a year, Carole wanted to try her hand at something else, “I love putting colour down on the canvas, cheery colours that make you feel happy.”

Inspired by the spring and sunshine and local wildlife, Carole began creating colourful, flower-filled canvases. Sometimes working on two pieces at a time.

“Painting for me has become my pleasure and therapy in life. I am proud of how far I have come. This is my first exhibition and I feel I am at the beginning of a journey and I just want to see how it progresses.”

The Larder Arts and Community Hub is situated on Lancaster Road. Pic Lisa Brown

“I hope I can pass on some good vibes through this lovely opportunity to show my work at The Larder. Thanks to the Art at The Larder team.”

“Come along to The Larder Café Arts and Community Hub to see Carole’s wonderful exhibition,” said Joey Afrin, one of the organisers of the exhibition, “and be encouraged to try something new.”

A Floral Affair is on display at The Larder until the end of August. The Larder, 50 Lancaster Road, Preston. PR1 1DD

Opening hours – Every Tuesday and Thursday 10am – 2pm. Every Saturday 10am – 2pm. You can also view Carole’s exhibition on Sunday 13^th and 27^th August from 1pm – 3pm.

Follow Art at The Larder for more information.