‘Vibrant’ artwork goes on public display

The work is by disabled artists who attend the Howland Centre, in Dewsbury and run by the District League of Friendship.

The exhibition features a range of stimulating artworks, including a 12-piece showcase by long-term member Nico Griffin.

The Howland Centre, in School Street, is a registered charity which promotes and assists the welfare of people with physical disabilities.

As well as offering support to the carers of Howland Centre members, it encourages the members themselves to take part in activities, build confidence, maintain interests and realise their potential.

The centre tries to promote the true abilities of the disabled to the local community, and break-down barriers between the able bodied and the disabled.

The work of 42-year-old Nico Griffin from Dewsbury, takes centre-stage in the showcase exhibition.

Nico has been a member of the Howland Centre for the past 20 years and creates work of great individuality with real feeling for colour.

His work has been described as true ‘outsider art’, given Nico’s position outside the art world, and the fact that he is self-taught.

Born with hydrocephalus, Nico was left with a brain dysfunction which affects his walking and co-ordination and leaves him partially sighted. However, he has risen above these difficulties to create his cheerful artwork.

The exhibition is at the Art Kiosk, near the counter area in Batley Library, and will run until April 12.