Artist in Residence Matthew Phinn's 'Exhibition of Bermuda Watercolours' is due to open tonight at the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art.

Mr. Phinn 32, has captured an array of Bermudian perspectives during his Artist in Residence session from July to September.

His Bermuda-inspired exhibition comprises of 20 watercolour paintings of various outdoor views and locations around the Island, including views from Tucker's Wharf, Fairyland's Creek, Smith's Sound, Hungry Bay, Somerset Wharf and St. George's.

"I arrived in Bermuda without any concrete plan on what subject matter I would be painting or how I might address the landscapes here in terms of technique," said the aritst who arrived in Bermuda after spending seven years painting in Japan.

"Of course, the light here is a wonderful thing for an artist and I was immediately struck by Bermuda's bold shadows, deep, dashing colours and dramatic skies.

"Although I often favour the control and private space of a studio, it didn't take long to realise that painting indoors alone would not be enough to capture the subtle variations in colour here, so much of my time has been spent exploring and painting outdoors."

Mr. Phinn, who is from Yorkshire, northern England, said he almost immediately found himself attracted to the challenge of capturing the sea.

"The colours change so dramatically depending on what is beneath and the changing light above," he said.

"The watercolour technique I have been developing seems to suit this. I gradually build up layers of colours, while playfully trying to bring together the movement, reflections and transparency of the water.

"I found that this is nicely offset by very detailed work of the painting's main subject, such as a boat or house.

"I have chosen a selection of both studio and plein air work and hope that in this exhibition, I have been able to get close to representing the beauty of Bermuda."

Expressing his admiration for Bermuda and his experience over his three month residency, Mr. Phinn said: "I'll leave Bermuda with so many wonderful memories, not only of the beauty of the Island and the pleasure of painting here, but of all of the hospitable locals and the many friends I have made.

"An unforgettable experience."

The exhibition will remain on view until September 30.

The Museum's hours are Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit www.bermudamasterworks.com or ring 441-236-2950 for more information.