A retrospective exhibition of the work of one of the North-East's most celebrated artists will take place next month.

The exhibition of work by Tom McGuinness, who died aged 79 in February, will be held in the gallery named after him.

Bishop Auckland Town Hall's McGuinness Gallery will host the display between next Monday and Saturday, April 22.

The exhibition had been planned in honour of his 80th birthday in April, but Mr McGuinness died as preparations neared completion.

After discussion with the renowned pitman painter's family, it was decided to go ahead with the exhibition to commemorate both his life and art.

It will bring together the full range of his work, from early items - part of The Jack Reading Bequest - to the present day, and includes some works not previously exhibited.

Additional work will also be on display in the town hall's Laurel Café during the exhibition.

There will also be examples of the artist's printmaking, produced on a printing press which is still kept in the gallery.

Mr McGuinness was born in Witton Park, County Durham, and worked as a miner for 39 years. He painted up until his death.

The McGuinness Gallery is open from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 4pm, Saturdays, from 10am to 4pm, and by appointment on Sundays, from 1pm to 4pm.

A book, called McGuinness, will be launched to coincide with the exhibition.

The authors, Robert McManners and Gillian Wales, will give a free talk on the life and work of the artist on Wednesday, April 5, in the town hall at 7.30pm.

* See The Northern Echo on Thursday for a free eight-page supplement celebrating the work of Mr McGuinness.

Published: 27/03/2006