Ryde grandmother Mo Martin this week launched her first-ever exhibition at the Monkton Arts Café in East Street.
Dozens turned up for the opening night on Monday, including Ryde Mayor Cllr Michael Lilley, Cllr Phil Jordan and Carol Jaye, former chairwoman of Ryde Arts Festival.
Mo, who is self-taught, will exhibit paintings and collages showing early influences to current interests, including many Island-related pictures. She is also curator of the Sara Kouvaritakis collection – a children’s art gallery also established at the Monkton Arts.
Proceeds from sales will be used to support Vernon Square Garden, Ryde’s historic open space where Mo is a volunteer worker. She said:
“It is impossible to exaggerate the importance of art in our lives. It ticks all the boxes for good mental health, encourages creativity and social interaction as well as self-esteem, especially in children.”
The exhibition runs till Saturday 15th February. Open daily 10:00-17:00 Monday to Saturday.
