A RENOWNED artist has opened a new gallery in Bridport - complete with a colourful first exhibition.

Philip Sutton, 92, cut the ribbon on the new Phillip Sutton Gallery himself to symbolically welcome members of the public to his latest project, which is situated in St Michael's Art and Craft Quarter.

Mr Sutton has had work displayed in a variety of national collections, including the Tate. His career highlights include commissions to design stamps for the Royal Mail, posters for London Underground and paintings for the Shakespeare's Globe Centre.

The gallery's inaugural exhibition, entitled 'Philip Sutton RA - His 21st Century Colours, features work from the artist's unique palette over the past 20 years.

Despite his age, Mr Sutton still works a full week painting and drawing. During the first lockdown, he would host impromptu exhibitions on his lawn to showcase his latest works.

Dorset born, he has recently returned to the county, living in an 18th century cottage in West Bay.

His daughter Rebekah has been his agent for many years, putting on exhibitions around the country and she and his granddaughter, Rifka, are working with him to launch the Philip Sutton Gallery.

Rifka said: "Philip remains upbeat despite the difficult circumstances he has faced this year, he has been unable to leave his home or meet up with those close to him for many months.

"Over the past we we have only been able to wave to him through his window whilst speaking over the phone. He often gathers some of his latest paintings to show us what he has been working on, and the vibrant colours he holds up with a smile always bring cheer to us all.

"He was delighted when he was given permission to visit the gallery to see his exhibition and cut the ribbon, he was so happy to be able to see his paintings on the wall and be there to open his Bridport gallery."

The first exhibition is set to run until Thursday, January 28, 2021.

To book tickets visit philipsuttonra.eventbrite.co.uk