THE first-ever exhibition of ceramics is being held at Helmsley Arts Centre.

York-based artist Penny Phillips, creator of porcelain animal sculptures is taking part in an exhibition with abstract painter Phil Reynolds.

Artistic director Em Whitfield Brooks said with the work of Penny, the movement was literal and anthropomorphic, while with Phil, his movement looks at more introspective forces juxtaposing calm against turmoil, using colour as an emotive vehicle and landscape as a metaphor.

“Penny’s animals shy away from the still or snapshot view of British wildlife, while Phil’s paintings similarly reflect a state of transition,” he said.

“This exhibition is terrific. Despite working in very different mediums, the works of these two artists sit beautifully together and we are thrilled with the overall effect.

“I do hope people will come and have a look at this stunning exhibition, in what is a brave new move for the arts centre, as we’ve never exhibited ceramics before - and it all looks great.”

The exhibition is on until Friday, June 5, and is open Tuesdays, from 11am to 3pm, Wednesday to Friday, from 10am to 3pm, and Sunday, from 11am to 3pm.

Go to helmsleyarts.co.uk