THIS year's Upfront Gallery Open Exhibition has a stunning 150 selected works on show in the gallery's various spaces.

Once again, the impressive show includes a wealth of artistic talent covering a wide cross section of works.

Now in its 17th year, the exhibition - which runs until March 19 - continues to promote the work of artists from within Cumbria while these days extending its reach to include artists from far and wide.

This year's winner was acclaimed artist Brian Shields of Armathwaite, landing first prize for all three pieces of his highly imaginative work, which were inspired by the rich life and verse of English nature poet John Clare.

Brian is a member of the illustrious Lakes Artists Society and highly regarded for his amazing imagery. His somewhat surreal work encompasses portraiture, still life and particularly man's relationship with nature.

The judges were all impressed by both the quality and craft of the work as well as the ability of the pieces to draw the onlookers into engagement with their fascinating subject matter.

Second prize went to another well-known and gifted Cumbrian artist Kate Bentley.

Also a member of Lakes Artists Society - winning the society's Peter Tyson Award in 2012 - Kate was a prizewinner at the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists Annual Prize Exhibition in 2013.

Over the years, Kate has landed a hat full of awards, the latest in 2014 - associate membership to the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists. The same year she also gained full membership to the Society of Women Artists, London.

Third place in the open went to Chorley-based artist Finlay Ralph.

To tie in with Upfront's Open, Cumberland Pencil Museum at Keswick has donated a special presentation box of artists pencils which will be awarded to the artist gaining the most votes from visitors to the exhibition.

Upfront is located near Hutton in the Forest.

For further information telephone 017684-84538.