AN EXHIBITION of dozens of acclaimed North-East artist Norman Cornish's previously unseen works are now on show.

The Shapes of Cornish opens today (September 29) at The Greenfield Gallery, in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, and will display the 40 images depicting familiar scenes of industrial life for six weeks.

Curated by the late pitman painter's family, the exhibition is being showcased alongside the 1970s Tyne Tees TV documentary of the same name, which explored his fascination with shapes.

John Cornish, his son, said: "He was known for a particular set of themes. We have here those iconic pieces but a real range of unusual pieces as well like little cartoon sketches and scribbles."

Providing an alternative insight into the life and works of the artist, the gallery offers visitors the chance to see "work-in-progress" and "atypical" works - many of which were uncovered by the mining artist's loved ones for the first time during the dismantling of his previously out-of-bounds studio.

Mr Cornish continued: "Thirty-six (pieces) haven't been seen. They are largely from the latter years and are works that he left behind."

It is the third exhibition of Norman Cornish works at the gallery, which had the seal of approval from the former miner himself.

His son-in-law Mike Thornton said: "Norman came here and as soon as he walked in he felt comfortable - and he wouldn't just go anywhere."

The exhibition runs until November 9 at the Greenfield Arts gallery based in the grounds of Greenfield Community College.