A yachtswoman who has sailed all over the world, Sue Maud knows only too well the power of the sea.

Nevertheless, Ms Maud was shocked by the terrifying images of the Asian tsunami on Boxing Day. Now the artist has drawn on the impact of the event for inspiration for her latest exhibition.

The exhibition, called Beauty, Power and Erosion, is at Hartlepool Gallery and features paintings and prints dealing with the sea and its many moods.

Ms Maud said: "I visited Thailand before the tsunami. I sailed around the small islands and was struck by the fragility of them and the warmth of the local people. Many of these areas were completely destroyed in the wave.

"We have a good friend who was there when it struck and has stayed around to help with the relief effort. My memories of how it was and the correspondence he has sent me have informed some of the works in the exhibition."

Ms Maud, who lives in Hertfordshire, has spent the past few years sailing.

She said: "I have been in some really terrifying storms, but mostly you do not have time to get scared. The overwhelming feeling you come out with is a profound respect for the sea."

The exhibition is at the gallery in Church Square until the end of May.

Published: 15/04/2005