A sixteen-year-old artist from Stoke-on-Trent launched her first exhibition at an arts and community centre on Friday (24 October). 

The Ancestors and Nature exhibition at U7 Arts and Culture Centre in Longton features 12 multi-media art pieces from the portfolio Ruby Falconer, known as R00, which she has been working on since the age of seven. 

The exhibition looks the themes of ancestors and nature, in particular celebrating Jamaica and its relationship with the UK. 

The centrepiece is an artwork depicting her grandfather Hamlin Oliver Falconer. 

R00's work is an exploration of family and the world we live in (image via Sarah Peart Optical Designs)

Sarah Falconer, project administrator at U7 Arts and Culture Centre, said: "The feedback for the exhibition was really positive. It was a great turnout from a cross-section of the community in Stoke-on-Trent. 

"Ruby is an amazing artist with great potential. She was recently considered one of the best young artists in the UK by the Arts Council." 

Nat Campbell, who attended the launch said: "It's been a truly unique exhibition." 

Another attendee, Monica Kwanzaa called Ruby "a true talent". 

The Ancestors and Nature exhibition launched on Friday (image via Sarah Peart Optical Designs)

U7 Arts and Culture Centre, established in 2008, is an applied arts centre which aims to help people engage with the arts and provide support for social issues as SEND specialists.

Ruby, the artist behind the exhibition, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 13. 

The centre, which works with people across the West Midlands, houses U7 Studios, a recording studio and rehearsal space, and runs QR Music and the publishing arm, QR Books. 

Music lessons for children and adults with special educational needs are also offered and available to book. 

Sarah added: "It's so important to develop young artists and help them start a career in their chosen art form. 

"Every child who has got a skill in the arts should really explore it." 

R00 has been working on her portfolio since the age of seven (image via Sarah Peart Optical Designs)

There is a community cafe at the centre called Scouse's Snacks which offers affordable meals ranging from £1 to £4 and free access to the internet for customers who buy a drink. 

The Ancestors and Nature Exhibition will be open Monday to Saturday until 1 February. 

To book the U7 recording studio and rehearsal space, email [email protected].