TWO talented Borders artists have just opened a studio with a difference in Galashiels.

Phil Halstead and Julie Mains are creating a care hub for people with mental and physical health issues.

And they are confident their blank canvas approach will prove both beneficial and successful.

Although Julie, who lives in Galashiels, is a professional artist and designer she has spent the past decade working for local care organisations.

And Phil, who is from Jedburgh, had a similar artistic background before moving into social work.

Over the past few years the duo have operated an art studio at Cornerstone in Galashiels, where they help adults with complex needs to create magnificent artworks.

On Friday, Phil and Julie welcomed their first clients to their new Care2Create workshop in Ladhope Vale.

Phil told us: "We aim to provide a relaxed, fun and therapeutic environment where socialising and collaboration will enable individuals of all abilities to grow in confidence and develop their self-esteem.

"We also hope Care2Create will help people overcome social isolation by them becoming part of something."

The artists have already held meetings with the NHS and local authority to promote their new services.

And several care charities in the area are also hoping to refer clients to the Care2Create studio.

Phil added: "The people we have met with have been as excited as us about what we can achieve.

"You don't need to be arty to benefit - this is all about teamwork to create pieces that everyone will be proud of.

"We want people to look back at the laughter and fun they had in the creation process when the artwork is completed."

Continuing with the ethos developed during their time at the Cornerstone centre, Julie and Phil use mainly recycled materials to make their masterpieces.

And they will also have an open door policy where they will welcome people with any physical or mental health issue - even just loneliness.

Julie explained: "Our aim is to tackle disabilities and mental health issues with team-work to make art but we will be open to anyone who feels they would benefit from the services we provide.

"We want to make a difference to as many people as we can through the medium of art.

"The name Caree2Create comes from us wanting to create a space for people to gather and enjoy themselves while at the same time making some wonderful art pieces, and we care about our clients, our community and the environment."

It is planned to hold regular exhibitions of the collages, paintings and sculptures created in the studio.

And local businesses will be invited to sponsor and exhibit some of the work.

Care2Create will initially operate on Thursdays and Fridays before extending its opening days as demand grows.

Morning sessions run from 9am to 12 noon with the afternoon sessions between 1pm and 4pm.

Each session will be limited to just six clients.

Julie added: "We feel it will be a more comfortable environment if we keep numbers down to six for each session.

"We are looking forward to our first clients coming through the door and hope many more will follow them - so many people can benefit from doing these art activities."

For further information or to arrange a visit to the Care2Create studio in Ladhope Vale Business Park call 07708463229 or visit the Care2Create Facebook page.