AN EXHIBITION by a young local artist exploring what it means to belong continues at Bridport's Literary & Scientific Institute until Saturday, June 29.

The paintings of Ella Squirrell, from Symondsbury, explores themes of sexuality, gender and mixed ethnic identity, as well as the associated sense of marginality. She works from photographs and from memory, attempting to capture not only what is seen but what is felt and understood.

Ella has recently introduced her writing, performance and singing into her art, and has collaborated with film maker Boris Hallvig to begin a series of short films in response to her songs.

Ella studied Fine Art at Falmouth University before returning to Bridport. After receiving the Wilhelmina Barns Graham Award in 2018, she embarked on a month's travel through Italy, visiting Florence, Rome and Sarteano in Tuscany. The works exhibited include paintings inspired by this trip, as well as by time spent in Cornwall, Iceland and Berlin.

*Entrance to the exhibition, entitled To Belong or Not To Belong, is free, with donations to the LSi being gratefully received. Ella's art will be on display until Saturday, June 29.