Felix Butterwick will follow in the steps of renowned artists as the new resident artist at Maryport’s Shipping Brow Gallery.

Felix won the esteemed position that comes with a £10,000 bursary and a year's residency at the newly renovated harbourside gallery owned by Cumberland Council.

The prestigious spot has previously been occupied by artists such as LS Lowry, Sheila Fell, Percy Kelly, and William Mitchell.

The gallery, formerly The Queen's Head pub, has been renovated using £461,248 of funding awarded by Historic England and the former Allerdale Borough Council.

The exterior still features the original mosaic of Queen Victoria and her VR initials which is currently being restored.

Mr Butterwick, a graduate from the Glasgow School of Art, said: “Maryport, and Cumbria more generally, are obviously known for their natural beauty, which is definitely an inspiration when working with the visual. However, I am most inspired by the people – how the generations of those that live in the area have shaped and changed the landscape.

"I think there's a beauty in elemental nature that Maryport has. The day's weather is written out in front of you as you look out on to the Solway and I really love that.

“I am really looking forward to being able to engage with the town and those that visit the gallery in person. It's amazing to have been given the opportunity to spend my time doing what I love.”

Maryport art enthusiasts Dolly and Brian Money will be overseeing the running of the gallery.

They have established a charitable trust to secure its future.

Dolly said: “Our vision for Shipping Brow Gallery was twofold. We wanted to showcase different but highly important works by the 20th century Cumbrian artist Percy Kelly and the 19th century Irish William Mitchell, and also create an opportunity for a young art graduate to join the gallery and create a body of work inspired by Maryport and West Cumbria.

“We believe this offers a unique opportunity for our young artist as well as for Maryport and West Cumbria.

"Twenty artists from across the UK applied and we were delighted to appoint Felix from a very competitive field. Our hope is that this will be a creative year for him, and will bring a sense of adventure and aspiration to young Cumbrians who will be visiting the gallery to see him at work.”

The Shipping Brow Gallery is due to open on Sunday, November 19.

Leader of Cumberland Council, Councillor Mark Fryer, said: “Shipping Brow Gallery is going to be a fabulous attraction for Maryport with artworks which have never been on public view before. I wish Felix well and am really looking forward to seeing the people and places he features in his work.”

For more details, visit www.shippingbrowgallery.co.uk.