A young artist has drawn inspiration from the animals on her family farm.
Lydia Bell (21), from Crumlin, Co Antrim, has made a name for herself with her innovative portraits of farm animals.
The final year Level 3 art and design student at South Eastern Regional College (SERC) had been due to host an exhibition at Stormont.
But with the north still under coronavirus lockdown, Ms Bell will now host an online exhibition on her Facebook page.
The exhibition, 'Matter of Heart' features paintings of livestock and captures the life and personality of the animals on her family farm and those of her neighbours.
"From an early age, I have always loved drawing, but it wasn’t until I came to SERC that I developed my skill in painting and started to experiment with different styles," she said.
"The pieces in Matter of Heart are the product of months of experimentation, in which I have moved away from a highly realist style to develop my own artistic voice.
"My artwork captures the life and personality of the animals. Through this virtual art exhibition, I want to give my guests the opportunity to see the animals in a new light, through the vivid use of colour and texture."
Ms Bell is due to begin a BA in Fine Art at Ulster University.
Through SERC, Ms Bell was encouraged to set up her own fine art business.
She said the college's entrepreneur club has been a "tremendous support".
"They have helped me with my business and have given me the confidence within myself to be daring with my art and have faith in my ideas," she said.
SERC is hosting a series of online open days on Wednesday May 27 until Thursday June 4, from 10am - 4pm.
The online exhibition will begin at 7pm on Friday 29 May on the Lydia Bell Art Facebook page
