A Warrington man is hoping to inspire others through a special exhibition of his artwork, which will go on display at Holy Trinity Coffee Bar next week.
Paul Larkin will be displaying a selection of his work at the coffee bar, inside Holy Trinity Church on Market Gate, Warrington, during the week beginning Monday, September 21.
Paul’s artwork can be viewed on Monday and Wednesday between 10am and noon, and Friday from 10am to 1pm. Entry is free, with visitors encouraged to enjoy a drink at the coffee bar while viewing the exhibition.
For Paul, painting has played an important role in helping him manage his mental health and has become a major part of his life.
Paul was diagnosed with mental health problems in his late teenage years and also experienced problems with drug abuse when he was younger.
He said: “My life spiralled out of control, I had nowhere to live and I lost contact with many people who were important to me.”
Paul began hearing voices, known as auditory hallucinations, and suffered a breakdown at the age of 18 which resulted in him being admitted to hospital.
He said: “These experiences were not nice, and I found adjusting to everyday life difficult. I did not feel well for several years, despite being placed on medication.”
A turning point came in 1987 while Paul was in prison, when a chaplain asked him if he would like to try painting.
Paul said: “This was a turning point in my life, as it changed my ability to cope with both the voices I was hearing and to manage my mental health.”
He has continued painting ever since, working with acrylic paints, charcoal pencils and oil pastels.
One of his greatest artistic inspirations is American rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix, and Paul estimates he has created almost 5,000 pieces of artwork featuring the legendary musician.
Paul said: “I absolutely adore Hendrix, not only for his music and his outstanding guitar skills, but also for the kindness and support he offered to the homeless.”
Paul says he has seen first-hand the benefits creativity can bring.
“If I am experiencing voices, I will take myself off to my apartment and paint because I can channel my thoughts into the artwork, which helps me to control the voices in my head,” he said.
He is grateful for the support he receives from mental health services in Warrington and from his support team at home.
Paul says his love of painting has also helped him enjoy an increased quality of life with his wife, Sylvia.
He is now encouraging others to discover their own creative interests, particularly people living with mental health difficulties.
“It is fantastic for occupying the mind, relieving stress, and improving general mental health,” he said.
Looking back on his younger years, Paul added: “If I was able to speak to my younger self, I would have said ‘stay away from drugs, find something you are good at and enjoy life’.”
Paul hopes visitors to the exhibition will take inspiration not only from his artwork, but also from his story and the positive role creativity has played in his life.
His work will be on display at Holy Trinity Coffee Bar for one week only.
Holy Trinity Coffee Bar has been operating for around 40 years and provides a welcoming, supportive, warm and accessible place for people to meet in the heart of Warrington.
