An art show, titled "Shoes Have Names", has opened at Cirencester's New Brewery Arts following a grant facilitated by a local councillor.

The Shoes Have Names exhibition has been brought to Cirencester following a grant from Gloucestershire County Council, facilitated by Cllr Rebecca Halifax.

Cllr Halifax supported the application for £20,000 which is helping to produce a series of exhibitions this year.

The show features a collection of handmade artworks inspired by the personal experiences of real people who have dealt with homelessness.

Ten international artists, shoemakers and designers were paired up with a person that Shelter has helped. From shoes made out of an old sofa, to the use of 3D printing, the show enables visitors to explore the artwork and encourages visitors to reflect on the true stories that inspired them.

Cllr Rebecca Halifax, councillor for Cirencester Park, said: "I was delighted to support this show, which speaks of the devastating impact homelessness has on so many people and shows the role that Shelter has played to help get people back on their feet.

"Reading the stories that have inspired these stunning pieces of art highlights how homelessness can happen to anyone should their support networks fail for all sorts of reasons - perhaps due to a

family bereavement or losing a job - and demonstrates how homelessness is often unseen because people aren't rough sleeping.

"I hope that many of my residents find the time to visit this impactful and thought-provoking free show."

Beth Alden, CEO at the New Brewery Arts gallery said: "We are really excited to be hosting Shoes Have Names, which details the heart-wrenching stories of people who find themselves homeless, and the support that Shelter can offer those in these dire situations.

"We are incredibly grateful for the donation from Gloucestershire County Council, helped by Rebecca, that has enabled this show to take place."

Shoes Have Names runs until 2 April at Cirencester's New Brewery Arts gallery, with free admission.

More information can be found at https://www.newbreweryarts.org.uk/main-gallery