Warrington resident, Paul Larkin, is displaying some of his artwork at the Holy Trinity Coffee Bar during the week beginning 21st September 2026. His work can be seen on Monday and Wednesday 10-12 and Friday 10-1, entrance is free, though people are encouraged to also have a brew when they call in.
Paul was diagnosed with mental health issues in his late teenage years. He also had a history of drug abuse in his younger years which had a detrimental effect on his ability to function on a day-to-day basis. Paul says, “my life spiralled out of control, I had nowhere to live and I lost contact with many people who were important to me.”
Paul started experiencing hearing voices, which is known as auditory hallucinations, and he also suffered a breakdown at the age of 18 which saw him admitted to hospital. Paul says, “these experiences were not nice, and I found adjusting to everyday life difficult. I did not feel well for several years, despite been placed on medication.
In 1987, whilst in prison, Paul was asked by a Chaplain whether he would like to try his hand at painting. Paul says, “this was a turning point in my life, as it changed my ability to cope with both the voices, I was hearing and to manage my mental health. Paul has been painting since using acrylic paints, charcoal pencils, and oil pastels.
Paul draws his biggest inspiration from American rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix, and he has created almost five thousand art pieces that feature him. Paul says, “I absolutely adore Hendrix, not only for his music and his outstanding guitar skills, but also for the kindness and support he offered to the homeless”.
Paul is fully aware of the benefits art has brought to his mental health and well-being. He states, “If I am experiencing voices, I will take my self-off to my apartment and paint because I can channel my thoughts into the artwork which helps me to control the voices in my head”.
Paul is grateful for the support he receives from the mental health services in Warrington and to his support team that is available to him at home. He also says, “I am now able to enjoy an increased quality of life with my wife Sylvia through my love of painting.”
Paul would like to see everyone having a go at being creative, especially if diagnosed with mental illness, because as he says, “it is fantastic for occupying the mind, relieving stress, and improving general mental health”. If I was able to speak to my younger self, I would have said ‘stay away from drugs, find something you are good at and enjoy life”
Paul is hoping that people can draw inspiration from both his artwork and his story. His work is on display at Holy Trinity Coffee Bar for one week only. Holy Trinity’s Coffee Bar has been operating for around forty years offering a welcoming, supportive, warm and accessible place for all to attend.
Paul Larkin with his wife displaying one of his pictures of Jimi Hendrix