A 'Tapestry of Life', a colourful and inspirational exhibition of art, poetry and knitting has brought Fermanagh Women's Aid Resource Centre to life this week.

An appreciative audience including representatives from Belmore House, Aisling Centre, PSNI and Sisters of Mercy were enthralled by the creative range of work produced by women who have participated in the Resource Centre courses funded by the Community Safety Partnership. Dr Paul Moore skilfully compared the evening and guided attendees through a complelling discussion of the exhibition.

Courses offered by Fermanagh Women's Aid include Creative Writing, Beginners Art, Beginners Knitting and Organic Gardening are open to all women in the community, not only those who are victims of Domestic Violence.

Michelle Goodall, Education Co-ordinator said the potential benefits appear ed to be manifold, including increased promotion of Fermanagh Women's Aid and the numerous services they provide, challenging some of the stigma that is attached to Domestic Violence by drawing on the strengths of the women who have never suffered domestic violence and creating opportunities for women to collaborate together in an inspirational and creative experience.

Meanwhile, Mary McCann, Manager of Fermanagh Women's Aid said the work acted as a powerful reminder for some.

"Some of the artwork, stories and poems produced in the creative workshops serve as powerful reminders of the struggles faced by women whose lives are made dangerously unpredictable through tensions within abusive domestic relationships, together with poignant imagery and statements of survival, hope and love."

The exhibition celebrated the achievements of women participating in these courses. Further courses have been planned for September 2007.