A SERIES of public events are to offer a window on to the work of homeless artists.

Crisis, the national charity for homeless people, is to launch the celebration of Edinburgh’s homeless artists in its 50th anniversary year.

Art in Crisis begins on July 4 and runs until the end of the month. Highlights include billboards and outdoor posters displaying powerful and personal still life photographs, a photography exhibition and an exhibition tour round the National Museum of Scotland.

Artist Jamie Robertson, who suffered PTSD and was homeless after leaving the army in 1992 following service in the Gulf War and Northern Ireland, eventually found help in several charities, including Crisis.

“I worked as a photographer in the army and was interested in trying another course but didn’t have the confidence,” he said. “A text came through from Crisis about this course and I thought I would give it a go. I felt nervous, but everyone was really friendly and welcoming. I was able to relax.

“Since being on the course I have learned how to use an old fashioned camera, DSLR camera, and how to frame photographs. Being homeless can be very isolating but being in contact with new, nice people has been great.

“I feel immensely proud that photographs I produced are going to be in an exhibition and displayed on a billboard for the whole city to see.

“I had no idea this would happen from coming on a photography course. I have a sense of pride and self worth and I feel human again. It’s also given me a reason to leave the house and not want to rush back again as I suffer from agoraphobia.”

Crisis Skylight Edinburgh director Ann Landels added: “Homelessness can be a devastating experience, leaving people without direction and a sense of purpose. Confidence and motivation are often the first things to go without the security of a home.”