Ray Haward with his hydrangea painting. Photo: Supplied

A new art exhibition showcasing the work of the Cancer Society’s art groups opened in Linwood on Tuesday.

The “Art Escape” exhibition at the Eastside Gallery in the Linwood Community Arts Centre will offer the public the opportunity to view and purchase artwork created by members of two Cancer Society art groups.

Course tutor Karen Greenslade said the art groups provide a welcome respite for those whose lives have been adversely affected by cancer.

“The group members are supported by volunteer tutors who are fine arts graduates or qualified teachers,” Greenslade said.

“Often the group members have had a desire to paint in the past and are now able to put the difficulties of their illness aside for a while and express themselves via their art,” Greenslade said.

Art group member Ray Haward received his cancer diagnosis over a year ago and has been attending art classes since soon after that.

“I have always been interested in art,” Haward said.

“I have recently drifted into abstract work and I like the freedom it gives me.

“The Cancer Society is the go-to place if you need any advice, and the people are very helpful here,” Haward said.

About 40 artworks from 20 artists, including Haward, will be on display at the exhibition, with the artwork covering a range of different styles.

The exhibition opening will be on Tuesday, March 16, from 5.30-6.45pm and the exhibition will run from March 17 to April 1, 11am-5pm, Wednesday through Saturday.

As well as the art classes, the Cancer Society also runs free yoga, meditation and creative writing workshops for people affected by cancer.

For information on upcoming courses, email groups@cancercwc.org.nz or phone 379 5835.