An artist from Barrow is dedicating her work to ensure children across the world can embrace their creative side.

Sarah Jane Docker, who specialises in children's illustrations, described how the current global climate had the potential of limiting the chances kids have to express themselves.

As well as working as a freelance illustrator from her current home in Dalton, Sarah uses her to time to run workshops to give young minds the space to run free.

Read more: UCLan student from Barrow makes dream come true with iPad | The Mail (nwemail.co.uk)

She said: "When I was little, I was lucky enough to be fully supported and encouraged in my creativity and imagination.

"I was allowed to go to midnight launches of books - the most exciting thing ever on a school night for a 10 year old - and we had hundreds of pencils and felt tips in a box under the stairs."

The Mail: Sarah hopes to use her work to inspire kids to be more creativeSarah hopes to use her work to inspire kids to be more creative (Image: Isle of Wight Story Festival)

Sarah described how, through family trips, she was able to look at the world like it was a magical place and now hopes to provide the same avenue for the next generation.

"I know that the world is more full of hardships than ever and I'm definitely not ignorant to the wars, genocides, inequality and consequences of things like climate change," she said.

"I think it is so, so important to let kids have this magical view of the world for as long as possible and to encourage their imagination through books and stories and drawing and sewing, making music, and plenty of other ways."

The Mail: Sarah was teaching the kids about what it takes to be an artistSarah was teaching the kids about what it takes to be an artist (Image: Isle of Wight Story Festival)

Using her art - and workshops - to spread this message was one of the key reasons for Sarah venturing into her self-employed career.

She said: "It's great to nurture their creativity and self expression so that they always have that place to return to when things do feel difficult.

"To let them know that they can put fun and good and joy and silliness out into the world whenever they like."

You can find out more about Sarah's work by visiting her website or her Instagram page.