A PASSION for swimming in the sea has brought three artists together for a new exhibition.

Catriona Simpson, Mandy Thomson and Jo Lee became friends through their early-morning swims.

Now, the three artists are holding their first joint exhibition ‘Forged by the Sea: Artists, Swimmers, Friends’ next Saturday (September 28).

The trio regularly swim at Belhaven Bay and Whitesands, and the exhibition will take place just along the road at Dukes of West Barns.

Mandy Thomson is among the artists featuring in the upcoming exhibitionMandy Thomson is among the artists featuring in the upcoming exhibition (Image: Contributed)

Jo said: “We’ve been talking and dreaming about how to support each other and what we could do together, so it’s great to be hosting our first exhibition together.

“Exhibitions are always thrilling to work towards, but it's especially fun when you're doing it with friends.

“It's like going on an adventure together."

Jo creates felt paintings using wools and silks, capturing local landscapes and wildlife, while Catriona works primarily in oils, watercolour and pencil, drawing inspiration from East Lothian's dramatic coastlines.

Mandy focuses on the ever-changing sea and sky in her oil and ink pieces, and explores the emotional connection to these natural elements.

The exhibition, born from their friendship and mutual encouragement, promises to feature striking seascapes and dramatic skies inspired by life in Dunbar.

The exhibition is open to the public from 10am to 4pm at the art club, which is part of Dukes of West Barns.