AN aspiring artist from Greenock has put on his first big exhibition — at the age of just 14.

Bosses at the Beacon Arts Centre were so impressed with work by Clydeview Academy student Ben Kretowicz that they invited the youngster to display it at the waterfront venue.

Ben has hand-crafted a variety of eye-catching tapestries — inspired by Inverclyde and the people who live here — which have won a string of awards.

His embroidery work has received rave reviews from patrons at the Beacon and officials have now extended the exhibition until November 25.

Ben said: “It’s about landmarks, attractions and observing people.

“I don’t like to go around and boast about my work but I’m really happy it’s here and on display.

“I’m proud that people like it because it boosts my confidence.”

The Clydeview S3 pupil, who lives in the west end of Greenock, attended art classes from the age of five and picked up embroidery skills from his mum Jillian.

He has continued to develop various techniques and many of the pieces at the Beacon have impressed judges at various awards.

Ben’s self-portrait ‘Looking in, Looking out’, part of his ‘See Me’ collection, took first place in this year’s Tesco Bank art competition and was put on display at the Modern One Gallery in Edinburgh ahead of going on tour until April.

The title piece, ‘See Me’, was second in the junior category of the School Art Awards, run by the Friends of the Royal Scottish Academy, in 2016 and he has also won two prizes in Greenock Art Club competitions.

The exhibition also features tapestries of Inverclyde landmarks such as the Titan Crane and the Esplanade.

Mum Jillian said: “I’m so proud of him.

“Ben does it all himself and he’s so humble.

“The exhibition is doing really well and the Beacon are happy to extend it.

“Quite a lot of organisations have helped Ben, including Greenock Art Club, where he’s been a winner a couple of times, and the Embroidery Guild in Bridge of Weir.

“They’ve both been really supportive.”