The Timothy Durham exhibition is surprising. As if from nowhere, he has suddenly appeared with already well developed art skills. Not since Trevor Todd's first exhibition at Masterworks, about a year ago, has there been such an unexpected show.

I had heard that there was to be a change of exhibitions at the Edinburgh Gallery, of the Bermuda Society of Arts and I think I had even heard that the new exhibitor was to be Timothy Durham, but the name was unknown to me, as was his work.

When I walked into the gallery, however, and saw the work, I immediately recognised that this was someone to watch; especially considering that he has no extensive exhibition record. This is his first solo show. For some one new at exhibiting, he is notably accomplished.

Mind you, Mr. Durham works from photographs or old magazine pictures. These he carefully copies. How much more interesting it will be when he does this from his own photographs. Then his work will be truly original.

Nevertheless, Timothy Durham is off to a flying start. When one uses someone else's photography, however, in all fairness, credit should be given and strictly speaking, I suppose permission should be obtained, to copy it.

This is not a large exhibition. There are only nine paintings in the entire show. Most are paintings of sculpture. Fours are depictions of ancient Greek carvings, while one is of an African wood carving, and another of the 'Kiss', by Brancusi. Two paintings are depictions other than sculpture, one being a picture of four African chiefs, dressed in their official regalia, along with their staffs of office. The other painting is of a scene from Jerusalem. It shows a view from within the Garden of Gethsemane, looking through a grove of ancient olive trees. In the distance can be seen a building and in front, standing by an iron railing, is a priest.

While I was there viewing the show, a cousin of mine came by and he wanted to know if I could name one that I would consider a favourite. After looking around, I said that I thought I would pick #2, "Poseidon (below)." Thinking about it right now, I still think this is one of his best but I also like #6, "Dying Warrior."

To tell the truth, however, this is a rather pointless exercise; all are carefully painted. It is a toss-up as to which is best. Come and see the show and pick your own favourite.

The exhibition continues through October 10.