A CREATIVE dad who turned to art to overcome serious struggles with his mental health has launched his first solo exhibition.

Peter Porteous-Butler, 53, started his career as a graphic designer for the Colchester Gazette and Essex County Standard.

He enjoyed a successful 35-year career in the newspaper industry before being hospitalised after struggling with his mental health.

Determined to overcome adversity, the father-of-two decided to rekindle his love of art, using drawing and painting to help his healing process.

The resulting portfolio of work in pencil, watercolour and oils explores some of Colchester’s most iconic landmarks, whilst chronicling his mental health journey.

Peter said: “The show is really a milestone for me to celebrate just how far I’ve come.

"I could never have imagined achieving this a few years ago, and Level Best is the perfect venue for me to do it. 

“Art has helped me so much with my own recovery, and every piece tells its own story.

"It’s nice to be able to meet people and talk to them about my work, how art helped me to heal and their own experiences."  

Peter’s exhibit, Every Picture Tells A Story, will be displayed at the Level Best Art Café, in Osborne Street.

To find out more about Peter’s work, visit tinyurl.com/aabx8jcr