ARTIST Andy Downes solo art show Strength and Sensitivity has opened, displaying a new collection of work created specifically for the event.

The exhibition, at the Twenty One venue on Western Esplanade, is on until the end until the end of November.

It opened to an appreciative crowd and live orchestral string duo.

Andy, who runs the Little Known Studio in Grainger Road - a community art space and gallery - said he has been thrilled with the response and sales so far.

He added: "I created this collection especially for this show and it had never been seen in public before.

"I am really pleased with the response. It has been nice to get feedback from new people who have not seen my work before.

"When working on this collection, I was keen to develop my portraiture and create a narrative. I’ve strived to create a body of work that conveys emotion and thought through composition and expression.

"With today's pressures and worries I wanted to show tranquil beauty, calm, hope and escapism."

Andy is currently running live drawing classes at The Ironworks in Southend High Street, as well as more workshops and shows at his studio in Grainger Road.

Follow him on Instagram @thelittleknownstudio for more information.