David Utting paints everyday scenes and situations that have touched him, using the drama of strong light and shadow in a direct and simple style, giving dignity, affection and humour to his subjects.

He works carefully and slowly, predominantly in oils on board or canvas, building up large pictures with multiple layers of colour, adjusting shape and tone till the image has settled.

He developed his painting in Cornwall, inspired by the light and colour, but six years on realised he was missing his northern roots and, drawn by the red roofs of North Yorkshire, has now made his home between the moors and coast.

NOW SHOWING at Grosmont Gallery - BLUE BAY WATCH - July 11th till August 8th - Paintings by David Utting, Photographs by Ian Snowden and Linescapes by Ian Mitchell.

GROSMONT GALLERY AND JAZZ CAFE, Front Street, Grosmont, near Whitby, North Yorkshire, 01947 895007 - paintings, limited edition giclee prints, and greetings cards. Open daily 11.00am till 5.00pm.

ARTSBANK, 29 Milton Street, Saltburn-By-The-Sea, 01287 625300 - paintings. Open daily, Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm and Sundays 11.00am to 5.00pm.

WOLD POTTERY, 79 High Street, Loftus, Cleveland, 01287 640100 - framed prints and cards. Open 10.00am to 5.00pm Wednesday to Saturday.

WAVE, Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire, 01947 880420 - framed and mounted prints and cards. Open weekends, all week through the summer.

THE WHITBY BOOKSHOP, 88 Church Street, Whitby, 01947 606202 - cards. Open 9.00am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday.