A new arts organisation has been launched.

The people behind Free Radicals United have announced the launch of their new organisation, Free Radicals Arts.

The organisation is dedicated to arts, ranging from art exhibitions, live music, poetry and performance in and around Carlisle, but stretching across Cumbria as well.

Set apart from Free Radicals United, which has been described as a 'solidarity hub for Carlisle that champions counter culture, activism and all those who are under represented in society', Free Radicals Arts seeks to set a spotlight on the creatives and artists within the groups it represents.

The group behind the organisation is set to make their event debut, a special live music night, headed by Free Radicals United member and indie musical artist Melanie Baker, called Loud and Queer on February 15 at their centre on English Street from 7:00pm.

This will be the third Loud and Queer music night that they have put on, something that they say is done to support and represent the broader queer artistic community for Cumbria.

A spokesperson for Free Radicals Arts said that it will focus on LGBTQ creatives and creating events that bring together the community in positive ways.

They added: "Free Radicals Arts started because we felt that clear and strong representation of artists from the LGBTQ community was needed.

"There is a great amount of fantastic artists in this city, and in the county overall, that may not feel like they have a good enough opportunity to shine through and show everyone what they have to offer.

"When Free Radicals first started there were so many things we wanted to accomplish and exist for, such as activism and campaigning for equality, providing a sober space for LGBTQ people to feel comfortable in, and to be a venue for local art, that it felt necessary to form this group separately to give the latter our proper attention that it deserves.

"An important part of Free Radicals Arts is that is it a sober space, because it is often an inescapable thing to have to drink when you go out to an event or meet with your friends - we wanted there to be a space for those who choose not to drink and also experience live events and community in a positive way that promotes wellness and togetherness."