A GREENOCK artist who developed his style of painting in response to a comment from his wife is showcasing his works at the Beacon for the first time.

Michael Hepburn's exhibition 'The Art of the Pastel' will run at the arts centre until the end of October. 

Michael, 70, has gathered together a group of his favourite works across a wide range of subject matter which have been completed over the last couple of years. 

The artist, who says he's been painting all his life, started out using oils as his medium of choice but opted to change his approach. 

Michael added: "My wife hated the smell of the oils in the house so I had to adapt!

"I tried out pastels and I've been using them ever since. 

"I prefer pastels as there are a lot of pre-mixed colour variations. 

"That variety gives me a greater sense of creativity when I'm working and stimulates my imagination. 

"I want to produce a warm, naturalistic effect through colour, light and tonal values."

Michael tried out various jobs, including working as a conservatory designer, before he decided to pursue painting as a career. 

Inspired by artists including Vermeer and Canaletto, Michael paints in a very intricate style. 

He says he enjoys painting a range of different subjects and doesn't stick to one genre. 

Michael says the best part of being an artist is being able to see the world. 

He said: "It gets you out and about visiting different places. 

"Each location has own unique characteristics and that always makes it really interesting. 

"You might even stumble upon a subject matter that you hadn't thought about before.

"One particular type of commission might lead you onto other things."

Michael has exhibited at galleries in Glasgow before but says he's very proud that his works are now on show in his hometown. 

He thanked Beacon curator Fraser Taylor for giving him the chance to showcase this particular group of paintings for the first time. 

Michael added: "This is a fantastic opportunity for me. 

"It's great to see all of the works together."