An 89-year-old artist, who has been painting and sketching her whole life, will host her first solo exhibition in Sidmouth next week.

Sidmouth Herald: Rose Lawn Care Home resident, Diana Davis, will be hosting her first ever art exhibition. Ref shs 9007-38-15AW. Picture: Alex WaltonRose Lawn Care Home resident, Diana Davis, will be hosting her first ever art exhibition. Ref shs 9007-38-15AW. Picture: Alex Walton (Image: Archant)

Diana Davis, of Rose Lawn Care Home, in All Saints Road, was born on the same day as the Queen and went on to serve her country in World War Two, before working as a teacher – but her love of art has been a constant throughout.

It was Rose Lawn’s activities manager, Ian Harbour – a keen painter himself - who was amazed by her skills and talent and encouraged her to put her pictures on display.

Rose Lawn staff and Diana’s family have been hugely supportive in making this come about.

Ian said: “There is virtuosity in her brush work, a way of capturing light and a sensitivity to tone that is something Diana has developed over the years.

“I felt her work deserves this.”

Diana studied at Liverpool College of Art, before going on to serve in the Women’s Royal Naval Service during World War Two.

She was involved in top secret code breaking at an outstation of Bletchley Park – something she described as the most exciting time of her life.

The artist moved to Sidmouth upon her husband’s retirement and says she loves the beauty and calmness of the town.

Diana does all of her work from life and many of her watercolours and sketches depict the rugged coast lines of Cornwall, or woodland scenes.

Her family will be along to view her exhibition on its opening day on Saturday, September 26.

She added: “It’s not every day something like this happens to you when you are nearly 90.”

Members of the public will be invited along to the exhibition at Rose Lawn Care Home, from 3pm to 4.30pm, on Saturday, September 26, Diana’s work will remain on display for a further two weeks to view by appointment.