A huge abstract portrait of Ronnie Wood has been unveiled as part of a brand new art exhibition show at a popular Warwick nightspot of the same name.

Ronnie's Bar, a bar and live music venue on Jury Street, is adding 'art gallery' to its list of accolades as it showcases work by local artist Rupam 'Rupe' Barthakur.

Officially opened by Mayor of Warwick Cllr Parminder Singh Birdi on September 8, Rupam's work will be available for locals to see until September 22.

The collection features a range of music-inspired art and includes portraits of Jimi Hendrix, Prince and Frank Sinatra, plus more abstract creations inspired by New Orleans and Cuban street dancers.

The project has involved other local businesses, with wood for the pieces provided by local hardware store Torry's Hardware & DIY and help from local art supplies business Picturesque for all materials. Local decorators, Kingham Flowers, assisted with the transportation to and from Rupam's workshop.

Rupam moved to Warwick after university in Birmingham, working for Severn Trent on Stratford Road and making the town his home.

The exhibition officially opened on Septembre 8 at Ronnie's Bar (Image by Bill Bates)

He moved to Cornwall in 2004 where he started pursuing art seriously and has continued since returning to Warwick in 2011.

Now retired from Severn Trent, he hosts 'art busking' workshops at events including the Warwick Folk Festival and his work has been displayed at venues including the Warwick Museum, Leamington Spa Museum and Art Gallery.

He said: “Launching the exhibition at Ronnie’s was an absolute thrill, with a great turnout. I’ve actually already sold some of the paintings, including the large Ronnie Wood portrait.

"However, the buyer has kindly given us permission to display it for an extended time before it goes.

"I am delighted!"

Rupam said he was 'delighted' with the exhibition (Image by Alex Harvey)

Phil Baker, owner of Ronnie's, said if the event goes well he will look to do more like it in the future.

"Creativity is at the heart of what we do at Ronnie's, from the amazing live music we have to the decor and our vibrant outdoor spaces, so when Rupe was looking for somewhere to display his work, I couldn't think of a better thing to do," he added.

"His type of work lends itself to our environment - especially given the fact we can actually bring Ronnie to Ronnie's!

"It brings potential new clientele, it changes the aesthetics of the place slightly and most importantly, it's supporting a local artist and has almost become a bit of a community project, involving other local businesses and individuals."

Some of the art has already sold, but other pieces are still available (Image supplied)