AN artist is launching the first exhibition of his work, which draws inspiration from his home town.

David Wiseman will display his vibrant paintings of Maldon and surrounding landscapes using a semi abstract style and fluorescent colours.

He has produced a range of work over the years, working in his garden studio while running a graphic design agency at the same time.

Originally from Galleywood, David did an art and design foundation course at Braintree College.

He said: “The principal was Don Upchurch and he produced illustrations in my favourite magazine when I was growing up – Look and Learn.

“It came out weekly and featured Mr Upchurch’s wonderful illustrations depicting anything from amazingly realistic dinosaurs to incredibly well observed battle scenes.

“He was a hero to me.”

David made the difficult decision to cut his course short after realising artists can find it difficult to make a living.

He said: “This is why I chose graphic design as my career choice - I thought it offered a more structured way to earn a living doing what I love to do, which is to be creative.

“It’s not easy to fit painting into a busy life, but I find it is something that I am compelled to do and I love the freedom that painting affords me.”

David has produced portraits of local people as well as landscapes of famous scenes such as the quay and Bradwell power station.

His exhibition is called Shadows and Light and runs from today until November 12 at the Maeldune Heritage Centre.

For more information about David’s work, visit wisemanart.co.uk.