‘The Painted Word’ is an exhibition of paintings by Alec Lewis that will open today (Friday) at Tenby Museum and Art Gallery.

After studying at Carmarthen Art School, he obtained a diploma in art and design at Maidstone College of Art. Alec then became a creative director in the advertising business before moving to Tenby 10 years ago, but painting has always been a part of his life.

This exhibition reflects his interest in the written word - whether it’s in music, poetry, myth or legend, and the people that have influenced his life. William Blake, Oscar Wilde and of course Dylan Thomas. Also included are his musical heroes like Lennon, Bob Dylan, Hendrix and Leonard Cohen as well as icons like Marilyn Monroe and Elvis.

“In my work, I use all elements that are available to me and mix watercolour with acrylic and collage on canvas. It is possible to make art out of anything; bits of wrapping paper, pieces of cardboard, used tickets; whatever you like.”

Alec is also concerned with the environment and has painted many images of the Green Man - the perennial symbol of our unity with the natural world.

“The Green Man has always been with us especially in churches where the imagery was used as a link between Christianity and paganism.”

The exhibition runs until June 10.