A LOCAL artist is to tell the tales of his paintings from the Ganges to the Clyde at a series of artist talks in the Scottish Maritime Museum.

As part of the Irvine Museum's summer events programme Largs Maritime artist, James Watt, will participate in a series of meet the artists, tea, talk and tour event.

The 86-year-old is one of the most experienced artists participating, with work dating back as far as World War II, he will conclude the event on Thursday October 18.

Mr Watt has become successful for his ability to capture harbours and shipyards ranging from European rivers, the Nile and the Ganges.

However, it is his depiction of industrial Greenock in the late 1960’ and 70’s which he is best known for.

This is a rare experience to chat and be inspired by the artist, who’s art features in the Queen, Prince Phillip and the Princess Royal’s private collections.

James said: “I have become known in art circles as the leading Scottish Maritime artist, so this will give me the opportunity to share the story of my career and how and why I started painting.”

Fiona Greer, Curator of Art at the Scottish Maritime Museum, said: “It will be a great place to enjoy art, learn a little about some of the wonderful artworks on show and even dip your toe in the water being creative, whether you’re a beginner or advanced at your craft.”

Having worked closely with the museum in the past, James also assisted in the opening of the new exhibition currently on display.

Launching the ‘Maritime perspectives: Collecting Art of a Seafaring Nation’ James Watt joined North Ayrshire Provost Ian Clarkson, Heritage Lottery Fund Executive Ros Kerslake, Museum chair Vic Emery along with other exhibiting artists.

The project aims to create a nationally significant art collection, made possible by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund’s Collecting Cultures programme, with further support from Art Fund and the National Fund for Acquisitions.