AN ART and music exhibition at the Beacon is giving people the power to celebrate Inverclyde's most famous son.

James Watt, the great engineer who was the driving force behind the Industrial Revolution, is being remembered in his home town 200 years after his death.

'When Art Tells a Tale' is a collection of public art created in his honour thanks to an exciting collaboration.

Artist Annie McKay and musician Yvonne Lyon have worked with a number of groups of all ages to create a lasting legacy to the 18th century inventor.

At the opening of the exhibition Provost Martin Brennan, a retired history teacher, hailed the public art project as a fitting tribute to James Watt.

Provost Brennan said: "It is wonderful to see people of all ages and walks of life embrace this project.

"People throughout Inverclyde's communities have come together and I am delighted to see their efforts in honour of Greenock's most famous son."

As part of the project the artists worked with the Reach for Autism centre, Moving On charity, Whinhill Primary School and the Stella Maris Unit in Notre Dame High.

The making of 'When Art Tells a Tale' was captured on camera by film-maker and local photographer Kris Cairns.

Provost Brennan added: "It is important we recognise such an important figure in the Industrial Revolution who was from Greenock.

"James Watt propelled Britain across the world and changed history.

"It is a privilege and an honour for me to be the Provost on the 200th anniversary of his death.

"He was the most important figure of the Industrial Revolution and everything that has followed since is a direct result of his work."

Reach for Autism's Ian Davidson, 32, who studied art at university, says he relished taking part in the project.

He added: "Art is my passion and I really loved. I wanted to celebrate James Watt and shipbuilding as well, which has been in my family for a long time."

Ian was joined by Sean Baxter, 25, who said the project 'had a huge impact' on him.

Port Glagow's Alexis Wilson, 67, added: I am very proud to be a part of this."

On the launch night musical recitals of pieces composed in the community by folk of all ages were performed to an appreciative audience.

Artist Annie said: "This was one of the best projects we have ever taken part in.

"We loved working with all the groups and would like to thank Alison Nolan, of Inverclyde Council and Val Boa, curator, for the opportunity to take part in this project.

"It is all thanks to them and they were wonderful to work with."