The phrase multi-talented may be overused in modern society, but one would be hard pushed to think of a more apt description for Chessington artist Jenny Meehan.

About to unleash her Articulation 2009 exhibition at the Leatherhead Theatre, the display will see Meehan showing off her skills in painting, fabric design, photography and poetry.

But for the former schoolteacher it is no big deal.

She explains: “I am a think big person so I like to display a large body or work.

“I have a very creative personality and I am always looking to challenge myself.

“My work does have a lot of different strands, but there is a common theme to it all.

“The main aim with the exhibition is to get my art into the community and the theatre is a great place for that to happen.”

But it has not always been like this, with Meehan’s art skills lying dormant while she enjoyed a brief stint as a teacher.

And the Teddington-born artist, who also holds a degree in literature from Kingston University, admits she took a while to find her chosen path.

She adds: “When I was younger I had a passion for the arts but I just did not have the confidence to pursue it.

“I really had no belief.

“So I decided to get on with life and that is when I went into teaching.

“I always wanted to work in this field, but you need a certain amount of time and money to do so - which I now have.”

Having thrown herself headlong into the arts world Meehan has very quickly established a fine reputation, garnering a ‘highly commended’ recommendation for her work at Needham’s Open.

A mix of vibrant action and quiet contemplation and motivated by the power of colour and the beauty of the natural form, Articulation promises to be an immensely varied and interesting exhibit.

And the Surrey talent has very definite aims from the project.

Meehan reveals: “I have spent a long time mulling over what to include, as I want the exhibition to appeal to both adults and children.

“I have always thought that the role of an artist is to make the audience articulate thoughts, to provide a form of expression for people without a voice.

“I want my work to engage people, and I think Articulation will do just that.”

Articulation 2009, Leatherhead Theatre, Church Street, August 4-27, 10am-10pm, free, 01372 365141