Once upon a time, most paintings used to be religious but these days ecclesiastical art seems to more difficult to find.

But one Herefordshire artist sees her faith inspired work as her ministry. Diana Thomas talks us through some of her paintings currently on display.

Anguish of faith by Diana Thomas

"I have studied art at both Cardiff and Hereford, and now work in my own studio as a full-time painter.

"My work sells in local shops, and through a series of exhibitions which are organised through a group of artists whom you may of heard of, the Borderliners.

"My main artistic influences have been Braque, Hodgkin and Piper. I constantly look to develop and change my work, whose main theme is emotion and faith. I try to show this through colour, and from the inner response I feel to the world around me.

"However, as a mother of two young children and married to a minister and writer, I have to also look at taking on commissions to pay my way.

"I actually very much enjoy the challenge of a commission, trying my best to work in a professional manner to meet the requirements and dreams of my clients, without compromising my artistic integrity.

A monoprint background with a metal cross suspended into a weave by Diana Thomas

"As a Christian I see my ministry as communicating my faith through art, and, as can be seen from my work at All Saints, I have used the opportunity which this venue gave me to create a series of abstract, faith-based paintings.

"I am very happy to hear from anybody to discuss my current work and receive any requests for commissions."

The work of Diana Thomas is being exhibited at Saints Church, along side the nature inspired work of Richard Bavin at All Saints Church in Hereford city until mid August.

Miner by Diana Thomas