AN ART exhibition open to all South African artists, professionals and amateurs alike, is driven by giving back through charity.

Art with Heart, a creative initiative by Zoe Merson-Davies, is an event based on promoting up-and-coming artists, while raising funds for a non-governmental organisation, Rays of Hope, that manages projects in Alexandra in northern Johannesburg.

Rays of Hope focuses on educational enhancement, orphanages, income-generated projects and Christianity and is the social arm of the Rosebank Union Church

Merson-Davies is an amateur who understands what is faced by artists before they get recognition.

"It's generally difficult to get exposure in this field," she said.

Merson-Davies drew the idea from a previous exhibition she attended.

"At that exhibition artwork was created with doodles for a worthy cause. I figured if doodling can assist in charity, why can't art?"

Rays of Hope administrator Trish Lockwood expressed their appreciation: "Through our work in Alexandra, we see how people can change hearts by giving hope and sharing. We thank the artists for opening up their hearts."

So far 67 pieces have been contributed for the sale at R500 each. Merson-Davies wants everyone to get access to art at a reasonable price

"I love art but can't afford it. The exhibition is for those who skip on an art piece because they can't afford it," she said.

People are encouraged to contribute their artwork on an A5 flat canvas before the end of the month.

The exhibition opens on May 8 in the Maboneng Precinct, Johannesburg.