A RYDE grandmother is set to have her first art exhibition, at the Monkton Arts Acon gallery in February.

Mo Martin, who is self-taught, will share paintings and collages ranging between early influences and current interests, including many pictures related to the Island.

Proceeds from sales will be used to support Vernon Square Garden, Ryde’s historic open space, where Mo is a volunteer.

The artist is also a curator of the Sara K collection, a children’s art gallery established at the Monkton Arts Café in memory of late local artist Sara Kouvaritakis, which is also being used by local schools to display their children’s art projects.

Mo said: “It is impossible to exaggerate the importance of art in our lives.

"It ticks all the boxes for good mental health, encourages creativity and social interaction as well as self-esteem, especially in children — we must support it wherever we find it.”

The exhibition runs from Monday, February 3, to Saturday, February 15.