TWO Inverclyde artists have shed light on their eye-catching new home town exhibition.

Jim Owens MBE and Grace Donnelly, who are members of Greenock Art Club, have some 60 pieces between them currently on display at the Beacon Arts Centre.

Entitled 'Inspired by Light', the exhibition features an array of oil-based paintings depicting stunning scenery, places of interest and wildlife from around the district and other parts of Scotland - and even a famous face, in the shape of Sir Billy Connolly.

It is their first joint display at the waterfront venue in six years and has been going down a storm among local art lovers.

Jim, from Greenock, has donated one of his pieces, 'Gourock Park', to the Molly's Fund collection, which was set up in aid of Clydeview Academy pupil Molly Cuddihy who has been battling a rare form of bone cancer and had a deadly bacterium infection.

He said: "A club member told me about Molly and I wanted to try and help."

Former firefighter Jim has been painting for 40 years using various mediums and he also worked in interior design and decorating.

His work is inspired by his extensive travels around eastern Europe and the River Clyde, particularly shipyards and industrial scenes.

Jim was awarded an MBE in 2000 for his dedication and commitment to people living in deprived areas in Bulgaria and surrounding countries while working in the fire service, which he served in for three decades.

Fellow painter Grace is a qualified graphic designer and has studied art and history since 1985.

She taught at the former James Watt College and in nurseries and elsewhere throughout the district.

Grace is president of Greenock Art Club and has been a member for 34 years.

The exhibition at the Beacon runs until Sunday.

Grace, who is from Greenock, said: "It's been well received and I've enjoyed it.

"Jim always donates something to charity and when he heard about Molly's Fund he donated a painting. "If it doesn't sell while it's here, it will go to auction."

Entry to the exhibition is free and it is open from 10am to 5pm every day until Sunday.