AN artist who recently opened a gallery is hoping to nurture the next generation of talent by putting on exhibitions.

Brian McAleer, 63, recently opened MacArt, in High Street, Manningtree, and has been delighted with the response from the community.

“I have been up and running since June and the feedback has been remarkable,” he said.

“I have been successful in selling some of my own works and have revamped a couple of local people’s paintings.

“Now I am very keen to engage artists and sculptors to exhibit their work, especially un-aired or young raw talent.”

He added: “I am really grateful for the support so far, I am hopeful of generating more business in Manningtree.”

Mr McAleer took up art after suffering a serious back injury, moving swiftly on to taking up art classes and selling at exhibitions.