TWO Black Country artists have won a competition by expressing how mental health has affected them.

The Dawn Jones Art Prize was set up nine years ago by Maureen Jones, in memory of her daughter who committed suicide in 2005, aged 25, following a long battle with depression.

Many entries were received but it was the offerings from Dudley resident Sabrina Jones and Ann-Monique Stellinga, from Halesowen, that impressed judges the most.

Sabrina, winner of the ‘what I am hopeful for’ category, said: “I really didn’t think I was going to win. It was a great feeling, as it was something I never thought I’d achieve.

“My drawing expresses the effect depression has had on me, and the struggles I’ve faced.

"Winning the prize has really inspired me to carry on with art, and I hope it will inspire others with the same illness to keep going.”

Ann-Monique, who won the ‘what makes me happy’ category, added: “A close friend’s recent suicide hit me very hard and I had about a year of depression. Fortunately, art has helped me find a positive outlook on life.”

The creative pair were presented with trophies by David Matthews, non-executive director at Dudley and Walsall Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, at a prize giving event at The Crossing at St Paul’s, Walsall on October 7.