A GROUP of seven residents from Alabaré’s hostel and drop-in centre in Salisbury are showcasing their creative talents in their first exhibition.

Starting from Scratch is at Waterstones in High Street until November 6.

Starting from Scratch has evolved with the support of the city-wide art project, The Word on in the Streets (Do I Know You).

Run by Ruth Marks, the Alabaré Place art group meets every Thursday and gives residents an opportunity to explore their creativity through drawing, calligraphy, paint, or sculpture.

One member of the group, 46-year-old art therapist Shaun, had a breakdown and turned to alcohol for relief.

Unable to cope with day-to-day life, he found himself in trouble with the police and was arrested and hospitalised many times.

At rock bottom, he lost his job, his relationship broke down and with it he lost his home. In April this year, after another spell in hospital, Shaun was offered a room at Alabaré Place.

He said: “Alabaré Place feels safe, less chaotic. I now have stability and my key workers here are amazing. They have supported me when I am unable to support myself. Alabaré has literally saved my life.”

Along with the professional support to overcome his addictions and mental ill-health that he is benefiting from at Alabaré Place, Shaun has found comfort in the informal art group.

The group gives him a space to express his experiences, letting him engage as little or as much as he feels able.

Having spent 20 years as a NHS therapist helping children and young adults to overcome trauma through creative expression, now Shaun is reaping the benefits of this form of healing himself.

Susan Francis, artist and co-facilitator with group leader Ruth Marks, said: “I have recently had the privilege of supporting the art group to produce their first art exhibition together, Starting from Scratch.

"The majority of the work on display has been created by residents of Alabaré during their Thursday sessions with additional pieces by individuals who have come along to use the centre’s drop in facilities.

"Despite the very difficult life circumstances experienced by each contributor, the exhibition celebrates the huge creative diversity, skill and richness which each individual has to offer.”

The exhibition is free to attend and available to view during the shop's opening hours.