MEMBERS of the Faifley Art Group proudly showed off their work at a special exhibition celebrating their 30th anniversary, which has been praised in parliament.

Art from members both past and present is on display at Backdoor Gallery in Dalmuir Library showcasing the strength of local talent from the past three decades.

The group, which is run by an elected management committee, has been praised in the House of Commons for inspiring people of all ages to learn new skills and helping to tackle social isolation.

West Dunbartonshire MP Martin Docherty-Hughes lodged an Early Day Motion in parliament marking the group’s history.

He said: “Faifley Art Group is a great example of the fantastic community groups working for the benefit of West Dunbartonshire.

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to commend to parliament the valuable contribution made by Faifley Art Group as they mark their 30th anniversary.

“For the past 30 years Faifley Art Group has offered a welcoming place for people to go to learn new skills and meet new people – helping to tackle social isolation and inspiring people of all ages and abilities.

“Volunteers with the group continue to inspire our budding artists of the future through their work in local primary schools across Faifley, Duntocher and Hardgate.

“I wish Faifley Art group continued success in the future and would highly recommend a visit to their exhibition.”

Christine Smith, the current president who organised the exhibition, has been a member of the group since 2002.

She also organises trips and tuition for the members to enjoy.

She said: “I love that everyone in the group is very sociable, it’s nice to have that time to go and meet other people interested in art.”

The artists make use of a range of styles and mediums, including acrylics, oils, watercolour and pencil.

One picture was produced by Dorothy Farren, who is no longer a member, but joined the group when she was aged 90. And another on display is a portrait of previous president and past member since 1988, Gordon Murdoch, who sadly passed away in May last year.

Isabelle Wood, who has always been an art lover, has two pieces of work exhibited.

She joined in 2006 with her mother who has now passed away.

Isabelle said: “It’s a lovely social group, everybody gets on, the tuition is great as everyone does so many different things with what they learn.

“We try new things as we go along.”

Clydebank’s MSP Gil Paterson, who visited to view the work, told the Post: “I am very impressed by the work; the standard is very high.

“The exhibition shows you can be an artist in many ways, not just by using a paint brush. Art is good for the soul, art is good for the community.”

The group meet on a Wednesday in Skypoint Centre from 10am-12pm.