ARTIST Sarah-Jane Szikora, who grew up in Darlington, is holding an exhibition of original new paintings at her studio gallery, Jam, in Whitley Bay.

Sarah-Jane usually exhibits in London, and Urban Zoo is her first exhibition for three years, the first time she’s displayed solo in the North-East and the first time she’s done so at her own studio gallery.

Sarah-Jane has been a professional artist for 27 years and creates artworks that feature distorted figures and animals. She is best-known for her confectionery-themed works, delivered with a quirkiness and wit that makes her work instantly recognisable. Although her art may appear carefree at first glance, scratch the surface and you soon discover that it offers ideas on the human condition which are not immediately obvious.

Her work is collected by art lovers across the country and around the world, from the US to Australia. It has also been reproduced as limited edition prints, sculpture, books, Royal Worcester ceramics and more.

“Connecting with others through art is where I find peace,” says Sarah-Jane. “Urban Zoo is my love letter to animals and the humans who care about them.”

• Urban Zoo is at Jam Gallery, 207 Park View, Whitley Bay, NE26 3RD from June 26 to July 14. The gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday (closed Sundays and Mondays) for the duration of the exhibition