AN ARTIST has added a splash of colour and uniqueness to a café in the Lake District.

Joseph Coupland Hartley, from Bowness, brought his distinctive style to the Ubuntu Café Bar in the tourist town.

The café's tired-looking chairs and tables were given a new life with the artist's unique painting skills - with one of the paintings being a map of the Lake District.

Owners Emma and Jonathan Macfarlane, who took over the premises in April 2023, have gradually been giving the place a revamp, integrating Cuban-inspired colours and designs along with some more retro touches.

The owners were thrilled to not only have some of Joseph's unique and colourful artwork on the walls but also on the chairs and tables.

Jonathan said: "I'm really pleased with what Joseph did. It is amazing and he's a great artist.

"When we started the café we didn't have any art, and Joseph would come up often for a chat. We had the idea to brighten up the place and then he said that he would do it for us.

"He did the chairs first and then the tables. With him being such a talented artist, every piece is different and unique."

Joseph, who returned to his home town of Bowness this year after living and working in London, has exhibited around the UK and has sold paintings internationally.

He paints in a number of styles, embracing a bold and colourful approach.

'Ubuntu' is a Zulu word meaning 'I am because we are' and welcome and inclusivity are very much the ethos of the café bar.

Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere through decor, music and the friendly staff team has been a key driver since Ubuntu's inception.

If you would like to experience Joseph's artwork whilst enjoying Ubuntu's food, coffee or cocktails, visit the cafe at 4 St Martins Parade in Bowness.