Ukrainian cancer survivor holds first exhibition

A Ukrainian artist who discovered crafting during treatment for cancer is holding her first solo exhibition.

Lena Archbold, who came to the North East in 1994, was diagnosed with leukaemia when she was 39.

She believes it may have been linked to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in Ukraine, when an explosion caused radiation to leak into the surrounding area.

During her illness, a friend gave her some knitting needles which was "the beginning of a wonderful creative journey".

"I had more than 70 rounds of chemotherapy so I needed something to do with my hands and pass the time," Mrs Archbold, who lives in Springwell Village, said.

"I did everything, crocheting, jewellery making and then I found felt-making," she said.

After Mrs Archbold was released from hospital, she started attending felt-making workshops, where the fabric is made by weaving together fibres like wool, and eventually began teaching herself.

The exhibition has been organised in conjunction with Sangini, a Wearside community arts project.

"The exhibition tells the story of my life through wall hangings, it's childhood, it's Chernobyl, it's dealing with cancer, it's depression and a piece I call hope, a big sunflower growing among ruins," she said.

Mrs Archbold's parents have escaped the war in Ukraine and are safe in the UK, but many of her friends are still there.

"I start every morning checking the news and I'm tired and worried, but when I think of my friends and family, I realise I have no right to be tired and I'm just glad I am here and I have my art."

Her exhibition opens on 23 May at Arts Centre Washington.

Follow BBC North East on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].