Bradford-on-Avon based Jonathan Mulvaney started painting in a free, impressionistic style 20 years ago after a long career creating sculptures, ranging from portrait commissions to monumental urban landmarks. ‘Making public sculpture is complex, lengthy and involves lots of individuals having an input into the outcome. Painting plein-air, by comparison is immediate, visceral and a lot of fun. Painting in the landscape whether it’s urban or rural consumes me now, it is direct, physical and exacting.

'A landscape painting that has been painted outside is an exceptional manifestation of time and place. The elements which come together to make it happen combine the heart, head and hand of the painter, with an emotional and formal response to the view, all underpinned by the sense of place and its qualities. On top of this you have the weather conditions, changing light, plus all the events that can occur whilst working in the landscape. You can’t get more local than this.'

Lyme Regis is a favourite location, inspired by the dramatic changing light, and the working boats in the harbour, he gets up early to avoid the tourists, to paint around the harbour for a few hours. Then home for breakfast!

The exhibition runs from Friday 18 April until Thursday 24 April and is open daily from 10:30am until 4:30pm. Entry is free of charge. Over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend Jonathan will be demonstrating his painting technique outside the Malthouse Gallery.