Abstract impressionist painter Emma Butler will bring her colourful landscapes to Darlington this month with the opening of her first solo exhibition.

Entitled Joy, Emma will showcase her work from April 20 to May 25 at Gallerina, on Victoria Road.

She has been painting and illustrating professionally since 2001 and creates dramatic large-scale paintings from her Holmfirth studio.

Emma, who is inspired by the landscape of her native Yorkshire and the North East, said: “I love spending time in nature, just looking and feeling what it has to offer. Then, in the studio, I put these impressions down on paper in an intuitive way. I find that painting in bright, bold colour captures how awe-inspiring and joyful the world can truly be.”

Darlington and Stockton Times: Emma Butler in the studio

The artist has been represented by Gallerina for more than 20 years where owner, Richard Hindle, has encouraged her to explore and capture the English countryside in her own way.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Emma Butler's work at Gallerina

“This eagerly anticipated collection is an opportunity for us to celebrate nature in all its beauty," Richard said. "To walk with Emma into, and through, these ever-changing beautifully lit colourful landscapes is to transport our thinking. And after what has been a long, wet, grey winter through her gift of colour, she allows us to welcome spring and summer the whole year long.

"There is pure joy to be had here and I’m very happy to hold the hand that shares something truly uplifting.”