TWO new exhibitions will go on display at the Town Mill this week.

Fluid Lines, which opens today (1) in the Courtyard Gallery is an inspiring display of stained glass, paintings and drawings - while Losing the Thread, which will open at the Malthouse Gallery tomorrow (2), showcases ten textile artists who are exploring how fabric and fibre can enhance our senses.

Fluid Lines is the first joint exhibition in Lyme Regis of Seaton-based artists Ann Pengelly and Elizabeth Richie. Ann is a well-established stained glass artist who specialises in leaded windows, glass etching and painted glass panels. Some pieces on display are usually only seen in the homes they were designed for. Her unique 3D glasswork will also be on show.

Elizabeth is showcasing her latest collection of paintings. Alongside these will be a series of large charcoal drawings she calls 'doodle dancers' - a reminder of her former career as a professional dancer.

Losing the Thread is the title of both the exhibition and the group of textile artists who learned to sew, knit and embroider from their mothers and grandmothers - turning naturally to textiles when they studied art later in life.

The three Lyme Regis-linked members of the group are Penny Burnfield, who uses a variety of materials and found objects Pat Mummery who combines paint and print with hand-stitch - while new member Jenny Pearson was attracted by the group's open minded approach to materials and ideas.

The show’s title is ambiguous, questioning the relationship between art and craft and whether textile art is still a distinct form of art today.

The two exhibitions will be holding a joint preview tomorrow (2) from 5pm to 7pm, open to the public. Visitors can also meet the artists on Thursday, October 8 at a tea and talk afternoon from 2pm until 3pm. From 3pm onwards, Anne Pengelly will be demonstrating stained glass techniques, and Elizabeth Richie will be on hand to discuss her work.

Both exhibitions are open daily from 10.30 until 4.30pm.