A GALLERY in Christchurch are to host the maiden solo exhibition from Dorset based fine art landscape photographer Lorraine Finney.

The exhibition, which will be held at the Hayloft Gallery on Wick Lane from Friday March 20 to Thursday April 2, will also be raising money for the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation.

The mother of two was able to develop her interest in photography into a business when her children left home launching her website in March 2018.

Lorraine said: “When my family commitments relaxed, I wanted to develop my creative eye, so decided to study photography with the photography institute and enrolled in various courses and workshops.

“At first, like most photographers, I wasn’t sure what genre to focus on, so I experimented, with all that caught my eye. However, the sea and land kept calling me back, so I decided to concentrate on Landscape photography.

“The beauty of light is so captivating while the power of the still image, to awaken the heart and soul, is so uplifting. To create a fleeting childhood memory or to bring back a smile to my viewer is so rewarding.”

Now a licentiate with the Society of International Nature and Wildlife Photographers, Lorraine will be showcasing some of her award-winning images, most of which displaying the Dorset coastline.

Internationally renowned landscape photographer Charlie Waite is a big fan of the work of the “gifted photographer”, commending Lorraine on her “beautiful framing”.

He added: “Lorraine Finney is a highly talented photographer and one that collectors and lovers of photography should keep a very close eye on.

"We were thrilled to hear that Lorraine has chosen the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation as her charity of support for her very first solo exhibition. She kindly donated her fabulous 'Sweeping the Sky' for a JTYAF charity auction at our Air Show Hospitality Day in 2019.

“We wish Lorraine every success for her first exhibition.”

The Hayloft Gallery is open every day from 10am to 4pm. A special meet the artist preview evening will be held on Friday March 20 between 6pm and 9pm.