A PROFESSIONAL artist says his work and outlook on life will be richer after working with a group who have all suffered varying degrees of mental illness.

Adam Baldwin, an artist with Platform Arts, in Thornaby, has been working with the Phoenix Art Group on a project called Landscapes and Journeys.

Some of the results of their collaboration, including six paintings, are on display at The Mall Cleveland shopping centre, in Middlesbrough town centre.

Mr Baldwin, who worked with the group for six sessions, said: "I've really enjoyed my time with the Phoenix Art Group as we have all worked together freely and collectively.

"This project and the resulting exhibition will undoubtedly have an enlightening influence on my practice."

The exhibition will run in the centre's display windows, fronting Grange Road, until September 10.

The full collection of paintings will then tour other venues in the area.