An exhibition of art inspired by the stories of breast cancer survivors will go on show in the north-east next week.
The Breathless Breastless project is the brainchild of cancer survivor Louise Stedman, who moved away from a career as a support worker to establish the exhibition in Aberdeen.
Now, after a successful launch of paintings and images from fellow cancer survivors in the city, she is taking the show on the road.
Last night, Mrs Stedman aid the idea for the exhibition had come to her after her own diagnosis in 2012.
“We’re all extremely familiar with the pink ribbon and things like the Moonlight Prowl, but I was aware that I really didn’t know much about breast cancer,” she said.
“So I set about coordinating this project. Through social media I managed to get together artists and breast cancer survivors and shared their stories – and our collection of very powerful images was created.”
Breathless Breastless exhibitions have already been held in Saltaire, West Yorkshire, and the Aberdeen Arts Centre.
Mrs Stedman added: “It’s been hugely successful, I think anyone touched by cancer is moved by what they see. And not just breast cancer, because I think the emotions involved are similar across the board with any diagnosis.
“It’s not all over when they tell you that you’re fine, clear and can go home. You’ve got that fear, you’ve got some women who have a mastectomy, self-esteem and body image confidence. We wanted to highlight that.”
The exhibition in Fraserburgh has been facilitated by the committee of the Moonlight Prowl – an annual walk around the town to raise money for cancer research.
The chairwoman of the fundraiser, Margaret-Jane Cardno, said: “This is our 10th anniversary year so we’re trying to have a year of events to raise awareness of breast cancer and healthy lifestyle choices.
“We thought a partnership with the Breathless Breastless exhibition would be a good way to highlight the positive stories around a breast cancer journey.”
The exhibition will open at the town’s Museum of Scottish Lighthouses on Tuesday, March 31 at 7pm. It will thereafter be open daily from 10am to 4pm until April 31.