A NEW art gallery is set to open in town launched by an artist well known in the area for his powerful landscapes of north Essex and Suffolk.

David Downes will be opened by the artist of the same name in Manningtree High Street and the space will also serve as his studio.

Born near Diss in 1971, David lives in Manningtree with his wife and daughter.

During his career he has produced commissions for Clyde and Co as well as the Savoy hotel in London where his painting of the Queen’s diamond jubilee Thames pageant is in the main lobby.

David said: “I cannot believe it after all these years, I have finally opened my own gallery and studio space.

“I have always dreamt of having my own space to work in and show my work.

"It feels incredible to be opening my own studio-gallery and I couldn’t wish for a better place that Manningtree and North Essex, where so much of my inspiration comes from.”

“To show paintings and drawings reflecting the beauty and atmosphere of where I live fills me with huge excitement.

“It will also be a platform to show the work I’ve created from further afield,  helping to broaden the visual conversation of my work and bringing new ways of looking to new parts of the world.”

David was diagnosed with high-functioning autism at the age of 32.

He is an active supporter of the National Autistic Society and was made a Vice President of the society in 2012.

David has also done broadcast interviews talking about being an artist of with autism.

Steve Tattam, chair of the Manningtree District Business Chamber, which represents 28 businesses in the town, welcomes the new opening.

He said: “We are delighted that David Downes has decided to open his new gallery on our high street in Manningtree.

“He will bring another dash of the colour to the town, which already boasts the new Studio 42 pottery and the art gallery NaviStitch, which showcases regional artists.”

The art gallery is opening on Thursday, December 1, and a private viewing is taking place on Wednesday, November 30, from 6pm to 9pm.

For more information on David’s work visit daviddownes.co.uk or call 07976 584 311.