TREES have had a mysterious hold on human imagination since the beginning of time. They are revered in mythology and many cultures represent the universe as a tree of life.

Branching Out, an exhibition celebrating the beauty and diversity of trees is continuing that tradition at the Museum in the Park this month.

Julia Christie and Rosie Hart are presenting their paintings alongside a 15x7ft composite work which illustrates the trees in Stratford Park.

Individual canvases, each representing a different section of the park were created by Julia's art students and are displayed together to produce a vast picture of the park.

Julia said: "It is really powerful and stunning. In spite of everybody's different styles it just fits and is a united piece."

There are two more group generated pieces on display, one by a Nelson Trust group and another by a local MS group, Painters in the Park.

Julia Christie's own work aims to highlight the beauty of nature, in contrast to the current climate of pessimism. Rosie Hart's work is more abstract and explores texture.

There will be a number of family painting workshops to tie in with the exhibition from 10am-4pm on Sunday 18, Saturday 24 and Sunday 25. The exhibition runs until November 25.