A RAINHAM man who used art to get over his divorce is showing his work at Upminster Library.

Pete Smith, 46, of East Close, took his first art lesson at Fairtykes in Hornchurch two-and-a-half years ago.

He now has his own exhibition at the library in Corbets Tey Road, until February 28.

He said: “After a divorce I chose painting instead of booze. I think it was the correct decision.

“It’s a very satisfying feeling when the idea you have in your noggin comes to fruition.”

He added: “It was wonderful to work on the art and it is good to show it to other people.

“I have fallen in love with art.

“I have moved on a bit since I first started thanks to visiting galleries, reading wonderful art books, and my fantastic teacher Stephen Cook.”