THE work of an artist who aims to highlight the importance of colour in our lives is being exhibited at a Durham gallery.

The paintings by Margaret Brownlow went on display at the Durham Light Infantry Museum and Art Gallery, Aykley Heads, yesterday.

A former teacher of art and crafts, she worked in gouache and specialised in glass engraving before experimenting with colour.

"My paintings are of a spiritual nature, influenced by the beauty of natural forms," she said.

"Each colour has a set of clearly defined influences and meanings, which can be invaluable in understanding the world around us and our behaviour patterns.

"These qualities can also be used to create particular impressions on others. A desired image or a subtle message can be sent with colour much more effectively than with words.

"The paintings in this exhibition have been created on my spiritual journey to bring healing and inspirational works of art into any environment. Four paintings of Earth, Moon, Water and Fire have been inspired by The Canticle of the Sun by St Francis of Assisi.''

The exhibition is on display in the Print Room of the gallery until Sunday, June 3.