ART Central, the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s prestigious art gallery, is currently displaying a collection by iconic artist George Little.

The exhibition was officially opened by the deputy mayor for the Vale, Councillor Howard Hamilton, who expressed the opinion that Art Central is one of the best galleries in South Wales.

He went on to introduce the artist George Little and invited him to give a short speech about his life and work. The charismatic artist captured the attention of the crowd as he spoke of the influences and experiences that shaped his practice.

Little was born in Swansea in 1927; the industrial surroundings of his environment when growing up had a significant influenced on his life and working style.

This influence can be easily recognised when walking around the gallery with walls adorned by imaginative and colourful paintings of derelict copper and iron works, abandoned rolling mills and dockscapes.

The title of the exhibition is aptly called ‘Industrial Shadows’ emphasising the importance of these early and ongoing influences. Little’s work has been shown widely in the UK, and has prompted a long list of distinguished awards and prizes.

The artist also spoke of his time teaching drawing and painting at the illustrious Barry Summer School during the 1960’s, which attracted pupils from across the globe.

The afternoon event drew in large numbers, all of whom were delighted by the artist’s use of colour, shape and mood. The event was supported by Art Central Friends who provided refreshments.

This distinguished exhibition will be on display until May 10. The Art Central Gallery - in the Town Hall, King Square, Barry - is open to the public from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday.