AN EXHIBITION of inspiring paintings and drawings created by people recovering from a stroke is to appear on the city’s big screen.

Beginning today, Brush strokes: Life after stroke, features a wide variety of work - from sweeping panoramic scenes in oil to pencil sketchings of animals.

It will run twice a week on the Bradford Big Screen in City Park and showcases the artistic talents of those taking part in the Creative Stroke Recovery Group.

Many of the amateur artists involved had never picked up a brush before suffering a stroke. While others have re-discovered their artistic talents through the support of the group.

One member, Bill, said: “We discovered this group by chance and I’m so glad we did. It’s made a big difference to our lives. Jean is rediscovering artistic skills and enjoyment that we thought might not be possible when we first left the hospital.”

The Creative Stroke Recovery Group - based at the Delius Arts and Cultural Centre in Bradford - started five years ago and has been growing ever since.

Members of the group meet every week for a session which enables people to explore different arts activities to help develop artistic skills and confidence.

Project leader, Deborah Collett from the Delius Art and Cultural Centre said: “Creative Stroke Recovery Group is testimony to the real impact that a little company and a bit of creativity can have on people's lives.

“Nobody expects to experience a stroke or have to try and rebuild their lives afterwards.

“Some members had previously had little opportunity or inclination to be artistic before, and yet find they flourish, going on to produce vibrant and exciting work.

“Everyone is thrilled that their work is being displayed on Bradford’s Big Screen, thanks to City of Film.”

Bradford UNESCO City of Film director David Wilson said: “This exhibition is very moving and contains some really interesting work which demonstrates the power of creativity in helping people recover and recuperate after the trauma of a stroke.

“The work is fabulous and we wanted to give the group a wider platform to share it with the public.”

The exhibition, run in partnership with Bradford UNESCO City of Film, can be seen on the screen every Wednesday at 12.20pm and every Saturday at 3.30pm.

The stroke group meets on Tuesdays at the Delius Arts Centre on Great Horton Road from 10.30am to 12.30pm.