Flourishing young Fivemiletown artist Tim Weir has launched a joint exhibition of portraits and figurative work with his close friend Jamie Edgar at Belfast's Canvas Gallery, 66 Stranmillis Road.

Tim graduated in Fine Art at the University of Ulster less than two years ago. Since then he has managed to make a successful living from his art.

Tim said, "My work is grounded in traditional figurative practices, and I influenced by old and present day masters, from Caravaggio and El Greco to Neo Rausch and Henning Kles.

"My paintings are primarily narrative in form, they tell a story. Although it focuses often on the hardships faced by us all, it is ultimately life-affirming and optimistic in its nature."

Commenting on the work and talent of these two young artists, Canvas Gallery owner John Orsi said, "These are two exciting young artists, who will be very collectable.

"They have each produced an impressive body of work for this show.

"Tim's large canvasses, with their strong colours and powerful narrative, are technically superb, and many of them have subtle undertones, some with a menacing edge. Tim has already had a sell-out show with us last year, and his new works are sure to be well received".

"Jamie is a remarkable find, a natural talent who, with no formal training whatsoever, has painted some fascinating portraits which would do justice to many established artists. We have already sold a number of his pieces, and we expect further interest"

"The exhibition, entitled 'Faces,' includes a mixture of strong figurative work, and both artists focus on portraits, with Jamie using the softer imagery of the two. It is fascinating to view their differing approaches alongside each other."