Paper, a disposable commodity that we all take for granted? We want to change the narrative around this versatile material with a carefully curated exhibition that focuses on paper as a creative medium. Paper was first introduced in China almost 2000 years ago for capturing writing and drawings. In the 8th Century the Chinese paper making technique spread to Central Asia where it was soon adopted in Egypt and Morocco before finally reaching Europe. The first recorded paper mill in the UK was Sele Mill near Hertford.

Paper seeks to endorse the individual nature of paper based art through a display or wall art, sculpture, paper clay ceramics and stationery products. We hope to share our love for this fascinating and diverse medium, and maybe change some perceptions along the way. As with all our exhibitions this show is only open to UK based artists and designer-makers.

This amazing exhibition has been carefully curated by the Heart Gallery team but leading the way has been Alison Westwood. Alison is our ever so friendly scouser who has spent most of her young adult life moving around the country and travelling to far off destinations before settling in the Pennines with her husband and young daughter.  Alison loves nothing more than exploring the beautiful dramatic landscapes and visiting the many coffee shops for a good slice of cake! She's always been creative and even won an international sugar craft competition in Telford when she was a child! When not being creative in the Gallery Alison spends many hours drawing, making intricate architectural models and creating delicate artwork out of wire. Holidays are spent in the family campervan around the UK in all weathers! But even when it is raining Alison has a lovely smile on her face to brighten our day and keep us feeling positive.

Heart Gallery first opened its doors in the picturesque town of Hebden Bridge in September 2006. The gallery is now a much-loved destination on Market Street for those seeking original artwork, unique jewellery, contemporary craft and carefully curated collections of stationery and gifts. Heart Gallery showcases around 90 emerging and established UK based artists, designers and makers which guarantees that quality and originality is always on display.

Nestled between the rolling hills and the breath-taking gritstone landscapes of West Yorkshire, Heart Gallery occupies part of a former Baptist Chapel, an absolute gem of a building situated in its own grounds. Sympathetically restored by its owner Alison Bartram and her husband Bart, Heart Gallery offers its visitors a peaceful and serene space in which to browse.

Heart Gallery, The Arts Centre, 4a Market Street, Hebden Bridge, HX7 6AA