AN EXHIBITION of paintings of the landscapes that inspired Thomas Hardy is on display at the author’s former home in Dorchester.

Landscape artist David Brackston is holding the exhibition at Max Gate until Sunday, October 30.

As well as painting landscapes, the Crewkerne artist also produces themed works including capturing Hardy’s Wessex in oils and wood engraving.

Last year he ran an exhibition on the life and work of the Dorset writer during the Thomas Hardy Festival.

Mr Brackston, who was born and schooled in the county town, said: “The exhibition during the Hardy festival last year went very well so I have put some pieces in there which relate to Hardy’s poems and the text is by the picture each time.

“There’s a mixed bag of 15 pictures.”

Mr Brackston said many of the scenes depicted also carried personal memories of his time growing up in and around Dorchester.

He said: “Really some of the paintings I did are going down memory lane, such as the River Frome and various places like that which bring back memories.”

Visitor services manager for the National Trust Caroline Richards encouraged people to come and view the exhibition and sample the rest of what Max Gate has to offer.

She said: “The exhibition at Max Gate aims to show how literature and art can work together to convey new meanings and appreciations of words and images.

“All David’s art is for sale so if you’re looking for an early Christmas gift then this will be an ideal opportunity to come and browse and enjoy a cuppa in the Max Gate tea room.”

For more information on Mr Brackston’s work visit brax.org.uk

Max Gate in Allington Avenue will be open from 11am to 5pm from Wednesday to Sunday, with admission costing £4 for adults and £2 for children.

National Trust members go free.

For more information visit nationaltrust.org.uk/hardycountry