ESTABLISHED and emerging South Asian artists are taking the limelight in the first exhibition of its kind, in Blackburn from July 9 to September 17.

‘Light, Passion and Darkness’ has been put together by three galleries to showcase the work of artists with South Asian heritage.

Included in the exhibition are works by Blackburn-based ceramicist Halima Cassell, painter Zarah Hussain, who has worked in Burnley, and bigger names such as Shanti Panchal.

Blackburn Art Gallery and Museum is hosting the exhibition from July 9 to September 17.

Zarah Hussain, who was involved in a residency programme at Mid Pennine Arts in Burnley, said: “I think it is important for people of South Asian descent to have access to work that reflects their cultural background and heritage.

“Particularly for young people and students for whom non-western art forms are not taught in schools.

“It is important that curators and galleries take the time to explore and unpick different forms of practice and show this work.

"Globally, the work of South Asian and Middle Eastern artists is exploding so it is good to see that reflected in the region.”

The exhibition has been curated in partnership with Shisha, a contemporary South Asian crafts and visual arts agency, to raise the profile of South Asian artwork.

Alnoor Mitha, director of Shisha, said: “The North West has been home to South Asian communities since the 1950s.

“Yet in this time, there has been no significant South Asian art collection in the permanent collection of the local galleries.

“This exhibition addresses this need and builds a foundation for South Asian artists to establish links with the galleries, the region and create relationships with local and cultural diverse audiences.”

The exhibition will also visit galleries in Oldham and Rochdale as part of its North West tour.

* Light, Passion and Darkness will be at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery from July 9 to September 17.