Change of art as Wolverhampton group hits 100

Wolverhampton Society of Artists has typically held one public exhibit once every 12 months throughout its 100-plus years of history but they are returning to the city's Art Gallery on Lichfield Street for the second time in 2016 by popular demand such was the success of their first batch of works.

On Saturday, 70 pieces went on show and will be available to view until November 13.

As well as the usual array of different works from members, the group has taken the opportunity to hold it's first ever themed exhibition which is inspired by metamorphosis - the process of dramatic change or transformation.

The idea was the brainchild of the society's resident professional snapper Chris Manley.

Society member Carol Widenber said: "We have one section on metamorphosis alongside the usual collection of works from members. It is a new idea this year to have a theme.

"There are one or two digital artworks for the first time. Although we are an old and established society we are trying to get ourselves into the 21st century.

"So our professional photographer Chris had the idea that because this was the first time we were embracing the digital form and the first time we were having a theme, that it should be around the reflection of change which or course is metamorphosis.

"The digital artworks are all original which have involved a computer in some way.

"We have not accepted photographs as that exists as another form."

The works were all submitted anonymously and selected on merit and expertise.

Among those to look out for includes Ms Widenber's own piece of a ceramic rhinoceros which she said was an 'experiment that turned out to be quite cute'.

Another work sure to catch the eye is Sarah Stokes' 'Through the Looking Glass' piece which uses the technique of oil on glass depicting an eye as its subject matter.

Visitors should also look out for Julia Timmins' 'Guineafowl' wood carving.

"It is always a high standard of work on display," added Ms Widenber.