Ex-lorry driver showcases Japanese art

The Museum of Cannock Chase has unveiled it's 'Re-orientation' exhibition by artist Graham Melville.

There are 21 pieces in total which use acrylics to present an insight into the cityscapes, landscapes, tranquillity, colour, people, and the weather of contemporary city, Tokyo.

Ex-lorry driver, Mr Melville, works in his loft studio in Sutton Coldfield and this exhibition is only his second following his first at the Solihull Arts Complex in February and March last year.

Visitors services officer, Nicola Bannister, aged 40, has worked at the museum for over seven years and never seen art like it during her time in the position.

She said: "Graham's paintings are large scale, emotive, vibrant; they really make you stop for a second to look at that them.

"For a new artist the standard is very high and attention to detail is amazing - if I could afford to buy them and had the space I would."

"It was only half done when I first saw his work as it takes around 3 months to finish each piece, but it was obvious his art was exhibition worthy straight away."

Mr Melville's work is being displayed in the temporary exhibition gallery of the museum and will feature until February 27.

Cannock Chase Museum is open from 11am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday and admission is free of charge.

Mrs Bannister said: "Sadly, during the winter months the museum is closed at the weekends but we will be opening the museum on January 24 from 1pm to 3pm to showcase the exhibition on a Saturday.

"The artist will be attending and it will give people the opportunity to visit the museum and exhibition that can't make it during the week."

For more information visit: http://www.wlct.org/cannock/museum/exhibitions/.