A TRIO of talented local artists bringing a colourful collection of their work to a popular creative space say a much-missed local painter will be on their mind throughout.

Erin Donnelly, her mum Grace Owens and their friend and fellow artist, Catherine Soulier, are bringing their 'Artin Around' exhibition to Gourock's pop up shop in Kempock Street from Monday.

All three ladies are members of Greenock Art Club and they're looking forward to showing off their own individual style.

Grace's late husband was the renowned artist Jim Owens MBE, who sadly passed away last February.

Erin said Jim, who was her stepdad, inspired her to start painting properly after she'd dabbled in it as a teenager.

Erin said: "Painting was a great way for me to really connect with Jim before he passed away.

"He taught me so much, just like my mum continues to do, and we used to have brilliant conversations about art."

The exhibition follows a very successful first outing for the three women last year.

Erin said she feels 'privileged' to be representing one of Scotland's oldest constituted art clubs alongside her mum and her friend for the second year running.

She added: "I find painting extremely therapeutic.

"Coming along to the club and having other people around me is really helpful.

"The exhibition was a great success last year.

"It was amazing to have people coming in and looking and talking about our work."

Erin said she would love to see more spaces like the pop up shop appearing across Inverclyde.

She added: "It's a great wee shop in a great location.

"Inverclyde has a rich history of arts and creativity.

"It's a very creative place but there aren't a lot of creative spaces.

"We're looking forward to welcoming people along and hope they enjoy seeing a collection of original pieces by local artists."

The Arting Around opening night will take place on Monday from 7-9pm.

The exhibition will then be open from noon-8pm Tuesday to Saturday and from noon-4pm on Sunday.