THE Arts University Bournemouth is exhibiting a host of work from artist Patrick Procktor including pieces 'which have not been seen in decades.'

In a collaboration with The Redfern Gallery, London's longest established commercial art gallery, The Gallery at the AUB is presenting the new exhibition which has been curated by art historian and biographer of the artists, Dr Ian Massey.

It features a collection of paintings, drawings, watercolours and prints which traces the prolific artist's career over the course of four decades, which includes loans from public and private collections and Procktor's own estate. Subjects for his portraits before the artists death in August 2003 included rock stars Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger and actors Jill Bennett and Terence Stamp.

Professor Emma Hunt, deputy vice chancellor of AUB, said: "Procktor’s support for art education and drawing are testament to the long tradition of art education in the UK and one that the AUB proudly continues.

"This exhibition is a must for anyone wishing to learn more of the interactions between art and design and society in the 1960’s and beyond, and the gradual re-emergence of figurative painting in the UK today."

His first show opened to great critical acclaim at The Redfern Gallery in May 1963, less than a year after he graduated from the Slade School of Fine Art. Procktor soon became a star of the art scene in London during the 1960s, becoming part of the social circle that included David Hockney, fashion designer Ossie Clarke and textile designer Celia Birtwell.

The curator of the exhibition, Dr Ian Massey, will be discussing the life and work of Patrick Procktor and his influence on modern art and the legacy he has left on Thursday, February 11, from 5pm to 6pm. Places can be booked in advance by going to Store.aub.ac.uk or call the Arts University Bournemouth on 01202 533011.