AN inspirational art exhibition hopes to lift everyone’s spirits.

Local artist Louise Crawford will be hosting an afternoon of painting and performance to celebrate Knutsford Royal May Day weekend.

The exhibition is entitled ‘Great Expectations’, to reflect Charles Dickens’ theme of marking a period of great social change.

The event is free to attend and will be open to the public at Egerton Place on May 7 and 8.

The exhibits will feature words and wordless communication through colour, sound, rhythm, and literature, spoken word and storytelling.

The aim of the exhibition is to lift people’s spirits through inclusive and diverse language to share stories and ideas, create positive growth and promote a sense of wellbeing.

As the sunflower is Ukraine’s national flower and has become an international symbol for peace and hope, Louise’s work also takes inspiration from the language of flowers  as a way of expressing emotions.

Knutsford Guardian: Sunflowers and Shadows, one of Louise's paintingsSunflowers and Shadows, one of Louise's paintings

Louise said: “Drawing on past experience and knowledge, the enjoyment of colour to express status, mood and identity through painting is an evolving journey.

“I hope that this exhibition will help open this form of nuanced dialogue up to more people.”

A team of artists taking part in this community exhibition include London actor Kim Kerevac, who will be performing Shakespeare and local artist and musician Dave Boardman.

New and exclusive music will be performed by Une’s Paul Langley and BBC Radio DJ Mark Radcliffe through an ambient sound, music and video installation.

MBOSS and GGM have provided generous support to house the art exhibition at Egerton Place, before restoring the Grade II listed building from a former school into a wedding and events venue.

New and exclusive music will be provided by UNE’s Paul Langley and well-known BBC Radio DJ, Mark Radcliffe, via an ambient sound, music and video installation.