A local Ascot artist, Kathy Swift, has embarked on a unique project, painting a series of images portraying the sensory woodland of a Newbury-based special school throughout the year.

Swift, who recently retired, has utilised her 40 years of experience as a graphic designer to bring the woodland belonging to Priors Court to life in her work titled, "A Walk in the Woodland."

Friend of the school, Mrs Swift said: "I was asked to help with a project where I painted several paintings for a book inspired by the sensory woodland in 2022.

"I wanted to keep it as a project for myself because I retired last year. I suggested that I could come in once a month, take some photographs of my own and then paint one picture a month for each month of the year to show the progression of the woodland trees each season."

Her project culminated in an exhibition held on July 12, where three of her pieces were sold.

Several other artists known to the school from across Berkshire also exhibited and auctioned off their work.

The paintings are now up for auction online with all proceeds going towards creating a performance art centre at Priors Court.

Mrs Swift reflected: "It would be a lovely event to happen every year.

"It’s the first time they’ve done it so I think they’ve learnt alot and I would love to do it again."

Addressing the importance of art as a form of therapeutic experience, she said: "When it comes to autistic children, it’s finding things that they can connect with and it makes such a huge difference to them and their families.

"I think art is always an amazing way to make people feel better."

In the inaugural event on July 12, Priors Court also displayed the work of the students from the school. They were supported to create their pieces which included cushion covers and collaborative pieces.

The auctioned pieces and direct sales generated over £1,700 for the Performing Arts Centre appeal, with unsold pieces available for continued bidding online.

Natalie Norris, Prior's Court Fundraising Manager, said: "This was a truly special event which with young people at Prior's Court and established artists are taking part.

"This helps break down barriers and gave the young people we support the opportunity to be a part of an art event within their community on our site."

The money raised aims to support the renovation of Priors Court’s Performing Arts Centre, designed to mimic theatre environments and provide autistic young people with the opportunity to express their creative sides within a safe, bespoke space.