MALVERN THEATRES curator, Humph Hack says he aimed for a wide breadth of styles when putting together the latest exhibition.

Artists on show from February 20 to April 1 will include Martin Ball, David Barber and David Moore.

Mr Hack said: "Martin Ball is a self-taught artist from the Bristol area with a background in graffiti art and illustration. His work is built from his love of colours, energy and emotion. He aims to create works which add a real visual impact to any room. Like artists for generations before him, he has chosen currently, to concentrate largely on one style. This focus allows him to explore subtle differences in tone and balance – reaching for perfection with every new work.

"But, like all artists before, he will probably never feel he has achieved this final step. In the meantime we can revel in some of the most energetic and vibrant works Malvern has ever seen.".

David Barber has a B.A. Hons Degree in Art and worked for many years as an illustrator and graphic designer.

Mr Hack said: "A large proportion of his early working life was spent in the magnificent landscapes of the Cumbrian and Peak District - National Parks.

"From these early days he developed a real love for the peace and beauty of these places. His paintings are produced in response to frequent walks through these wild and often bleak open spaces. They are an attempt to capture some of the light and freshness of nature through a thoughtful use of colour and tone. Early stages of a painting progress quickly with rapid brush strokes applied very loosely to the canvas to sketch in the major features of the composition."

Mr Hack added: "He produces paintings that can hold your attention with their rich colours or carefully placed details. He doesn't rely on tricks, but completes his works with care, love and patience."

David Moore, who was born in Derby, is entirely self-taught.

But Mr Hack said: "As can be seen from the work in this exhibition, clearly he has a high degree of natural ability. Some artists, like the ones above, adopt a style which they settle into, going on to refine and hone the outcome over a number of years. Others go through a series of styles over time. Unusually, in this David’s case, he has chosen to paint in a wide variety of genre, thereby showing an impressive degree of skill. He is influenced by many great artists, which is why his artworks are so varied."