THE Courthouse Gallery at Rural Arts in Thirsk has recently opened an exhibition featuring the work of Yorkshire-based visual artist Neil McBride.

The Crowd Pleasers exhibition features a wide selection of works by McBride, including highlyregarded “people” paintings Erosion and Close Encounter; the latter was well received at the Masham Arts Festival.

Born in 1950, Neil is one of Britain’s most versatile artists and has regular exhibitions in galleries throughout Yorkshire.

Based near York, Neil is exceptionally fond of the North Yorkshire countryside and focuses his work on contemporary paintings, including expressive landscapes, colourful coastal scenes, conceptual and abstract art, urban images and corporate art. As a painter and maker of art prints and original paintings in acrylic and oil, Crowd Pleasers reveals his continuing obsession with depicting crowds of interesting people in eventful and intriguing situations.

“As an artist I’m more than a painter of pretty pictures. I’m interested in the psychology of perception,” Neil said.

Angela Holt, gallery manager, said: “We are delighted to be featuring Neil’s work in the gallery.

“Showcasing local creative talent is always high on our list of priorities and his distinctive style along with his eye-catching use of colour makes the exhibition a really inspiring and stimulating visual experience”.

The exhibition will run Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 4.30pm, until March 29. Entry is free.