CONTEMPORARY artist Mark A Pearce will open his annual exhibition in the region this week.

He showcases his work at the Pennington Hotel, in Ravenglass, from Sunday, August 21 to September 10.

His work can also currently be seen in The Lake Artists Society Summer Exhibition, in Grasmere, until September 7, with another exhibition of his work opening this week at the Up-front Gallery, in Penrith, until early October.

Mark lives and works in Ravenglass, with his studio, situated on the shores of the Ravenglass Estuary, offering stunning views of the surrounding Lake District fells and sea.

The local landscapes provide much of the inspiration for his paintings and prints, which include oils, mixed media paintings and his vibrant lino and wood cuts.

Mark was brought up in Cumbria and after his A-levels, he studied at Carlisle College of Art and Design before moving to Norwich School of Art where he specialised in graphic design.

On the strength of his portfolio he found work in London with the well-known Michael Peters and Partners, winning the BBC design award for his memorable Royal Mail Greeting Stamps, featuring smiles from the likes of Dennis the Menace, the Mona Lisa and the laughing policeman.

Mark was the creative director for some of the most iconic branding of the 90s, including accounts such as Martell, Vodafone, Unilever, BBC, Birds Eye and the Hong Kong Government.

Mark then decided to return to the Lakes, and began to produce original paintings and prints.

He is still developing his style and techniques and works in several different media.

He is currently producing vibrant oils, watercolours, pastels, and limited edition reduction wood and linocuts.

A permanent display of Mark’s art is hosted at the Pennington Hotel with his annual exhibition offering more chances to view and buy his work.