MORE than 1,500 people visited the Beacon Arts Centre over the summer to see a unique exhibition created by local artists. 

The venue's summer open exhibition gave local creatives the chance to showcase their work in the beautiful waterfront gallery space. 

More than 75 works were submitted by Inverclyde-based artists, and 13 were sold, bringing in a total of £1,835 for the artists concerned.

(Image: Christopher Bowen Photography) The exhibition pulled in around 1,600 visitors during its run from July 6 until August 24. 

The Beacon's guest curator, Fraser Taylor, said: "This is the third year that we have put on the summer open exhibition and the variety and quality of work on show was a joy to behold.

"Some of the artists we featured had never displayed their work publicly before, so it provided them with a unique opportunity to connect with a wider audience.

"The attendance figures show what an important role the event plays in attracting people to Inverclyde, and how it contributes to the Beacon's extensive cultural offering.

"We're already looking forward to putting on next year's exhibition and the array of interesting submissions it will bring, and I would encourage all local artists to take part."