The pieces, which also include flower arrangements, silk work and knitted items, were produced by people who use County Durham Care and Support services provided by Durham County Council.
The exhibition, at County Hall until Friday, 16 October, also features banners made by service users and staff for the authority’s annual Dignity festivals.
Janice Pearce, assistant coordinator for the Time 4 U Activities Service, said: “All the work on display has been lovingly handmade.
“Very few exhibits have been shared with anyone other than family and friends so this exhibition is an ideal way of sharing some wonderful work with a wider audience.”
Many of artists will be joined by their friends and family for a special viewing of the exhibition between 11.30am and 1.30pm on Thursday, 15 October.
The project is being supported by Hanover Housing and Accent Housing, some of whose tenants are among the featured artists.