Residents and members of the Walmgate community in York will feature in an exhibition of paintings and film from tomorrow at the street’s community arts centre, Space 109.

Ten people have taken part in a community arts project led by portrait artist Thomas Rimmington, sitting for portrait paintings and talking about their lives on film.

The Face Of The Community project will give an insight into life past and present. “It’s been great to be able to explore the wealth of experience that these people have had,” says Thomas. “This part of York is very diverse and has seen a great many changes in its recent past.

“I hope this exhibition gives some insight into the rich tapestry of stories and lives that have been part of Walmgate during the past few generations, and indeed very much so in the present time.

“Being involved with this project has been an extremely interesting experience for me, and I’m glad to be sharing many of my discoveries with the public through opening up this exhibition.”

The Face Of The Community will be on show each weekend until September 5 at Space 109, where tomorrow’s preview at 7pm will be followed by further Saturday opening hours of 10am to 5pm and Sunday hours of 1.30pm to 5pm.

The project is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council England. Further information can be found online at faceofthecommunity.blogspot.com