A new exhibition is set to showcase art created by adults with learning disabilities in Colchester.
Acorn Village, based in Clacton Road, Mistley, collaborated with Firstsite for the project.
The exhibition, now open at the contemporary visual arts gallery in Colchester, will run until Sunday, September 7.
A special preview took place on Friday, where some of the artists themselves, along with other guests of Acorn Village, had the opportunity to see their work on display.
The exhibition features 50 pieces created by artists and residents in workshops at the Day Services and Therapeutic Centre over the last 20 years.
Michelle Cook, CEO of Acorn Village, said: "We are delighted that the wonderful creative work of our Acorn Artists is in this exhibition at Firstsite.
"What a brilliant way to help celebrate Acorn's 50th anniversary year."
The charity provides residential and supported living schemes on its 14-acre site for up to 53 adults with learning disabilities.
These individuals are given the opportunity to live their lives to their full potential through a wide range of activities and workshops run by day services.
These services are also available to adults with learning disabilities living in the wider community.
Louise, one of the Acorn Artists featured in the exhibition, said: "It makes me feel happy that my work is being displayed at Firstsite and I am excited to show people everything that I have created at Day Services."
Angenita Teekens, co-curator of the project, added: "From the first Acorn beginnings Arts and Craft were part of the wellbeing package offered to residents.
"This meant socialising, making choices, experimenting with materials, finding a voice through personal and communal making.
"The art works that developed ranges from the spontaneous to carefully executed pieces.
"All with their own unique quality. Creative wellbeing is part of daily life at Acorn Village."
However, the exhibition comes as a welcome distraction for the charity, which is facing an unprecedented increase in its costs.
Acorn Village will need to find an extra £346,000 in this financial year under the new Budget, on top of its usual expenditure.
This extra cost comes from the increase in employer national insurance and the national insurance rise.
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