AN ALLOA artist has launched an online exhibition, showcasing the new artwork she has produced with support from Scottish Autism.

With help from the Alloa-based charity, Rachel Hook is now in a position to display a lot of her works online for people to see.

Jane Hook MBE, Rachel’s mum, said: “Art is the one thing that has sustained Rachel throughout everything, so it was particularly difficult to see her unable to access this as a result of the pandemic.

“Once we got Rachel the right premises and back to working with Project Ability, she was able to produce great art once again.”

Rachel studied at Scottish Autism’s New Struan School before moving into the charity’s adult services.

She struggled for a period during the pandemic, after she lost access to studio space, but is now delighted at being able to produce artwork again.

Rachel found a studio space in Menstrie, allowing her to produce art once more, with some of her work now being shared online.

Jill Ferguson, regional manager for central region, at Scottish Autism, commented: “Scottish Autism has supported Rachel for a number of years and we know how much her artwork means to her.

“It has been a really challenging period for her as she has tried to find a way back to producing wonderful art again.

“To see Rachel overcome these challenges, with the right support in place, has been really heartwarming for all who are involved in supporting her.”

On top of the support received from Scottish Autism, Rachel also attends Project Ability, a visual arts charity and gallery which supports people with learning disabilities and poor mental health to create art.

Attending Saturday studio sessions with Project Ability, the work Rachel has produced through the support network will now be on display on their website.

Heather Lander, of Project Ability, added: “It took some time for Rachel to readjust to the Project Ability studio, after so much of her routine was taken from her during the pandemic.

“Rachel really struggled during this time period, and so it is wonderful to see she has begun to paint again.

“This body of work shows a maturity that wasn’t as clear a few years ago, and it is a delight to share them with our audience.”