AN exhibition has opened in Lochwinnoch in memory of a talented artist.

Willie Owens was a pupil at Corseford School, in Johnstone, before becoming a prolific artist.

Although cerebral palsy created challenges in his life, Willie was able to produce artwork that received widespread praise.

Sadly, he died at the age of 49 but his work lives on, with examples now on display at Lochwinnoch Library ahead of the village's arts festival, which gets under way next week.

Liz Owens, Willie's sister, told The Gazette: "He was an amazing person and an amazing artist. He was so talented, despite facing challenges in life.

"My mum, who died last year, was keen to do something that would inspire others with disabilities to get involved in art.

"Willie is very fondly remembered in the art scene, so we thought it would be nice to do something with the school that he used to attend."

The exhibition features a mix of Willie's work from his time at the Glasgow Print Studio and creations from current pupils at Corseford School, which supports children and young people with complex health, education, movement and communication needs.

Entry is free and people are welcome to pop in from now until Friday, with the opportunity to buy the work on display.

Liz said: "As well as my mum's influence, the school played a very big part in allowing him to go beyond his disability.

"The school were very enthusiastic about getting involved and the work that the children have produced is fantastic.

"I can see some of the Corseford School pupil's work has taken influence from Willie's bold, colourful style that he was known for too."

After leaving Coresford in 1972, Willie went onto study photography at college then later went onto Glasgow School of Art where he excelled in painting.

Despite being wheelchair bound and with limited use of his hands, Willie's creativity always shone through in his work.

Liz said: "When my mum was pregnant with Willie she was advised to terminate him and that he wouldn't amount to much.

"However he was such a lively person and always surrounded by interesting people - he touched the lives of so many."

Following the Lochwinnoch Arts Festival event, the exhibition will move on to Project Ability from March 17 to 25, then to Corseford School, where it all started for Willie.

The school exhibition will launch on April 25.