A new art gallery in Beaminster is bringing together sound and colour – giving visitors a unique and calming experience.

The Soulour Gallery opened its doors to the public at the studio in Lynden Way last week – following a long-running partnership between Reiki master Carmen Belle-White and her husband and composer Neil Hick.

“We have been working together for many years – but we have outgrown our space,” said Carmen.

“I produce the paintings inspired by colour, while Neil composes unique pieces of music which match them.

“Neil has been composing ambient music for more than 20 years – and people have already told us we should set up somewhere to sit in here because it’s so calming as soon as you walk in the door.”

The gallery sells a selection of paintings of different sizes, with some also available as prints and cards. Also on offer is unique jewellery and handmade Yak wool shawls.

Carmen started working with colour to help her autistic son Harry, after she was told he would find it difficult to communicate.

“When he was seven, I gave him paintbrushes and I gave him paint and I could straight away interpret how he was feeling,” said Carmen.

“He has been able to use colours as part of his development and he is now a thriving student at Mountjoy School.”

The couple are also available for consultations and commissions – along with giving sound and colour demonstrations for workshops, groups, schools and community centres.

Carmen believes the gallery’s space is a unique place for people to unwind and forget about their hectic lives.

“It’s about desensitising ourselves from the busy world we live in. It’s important we take time to relax and reflect on life. A lot of people don’t stop to even think, but it doesn’t have to be like that,” she said.

Carmen and Neil will be attending the Poole Lighthouse Festival on February 7 and 8 and the Healing Weekend in Highbridge, Somerset between July 10 and July 12.

For more information on the Soulour Gallery, log onto facebook.com/soulour