Manchester Academy of Fine Arts celebrate their 150 years of playing a vibrant role in the artistic life of the North of England. To commemorate their achievements Central Art Gallery in Ashton-under-Lyne, is hosting an exhibition of the members’ work commissioned especially for the exhibition.

Twenty four artists are taking part in the historic exhibition. Their work ranges widely in both style and medium, but all share a common theme, The North. Visitors can expect varied and unusual takes on the local area and how the northern landscape has affected and defined their work.

Amongst the pieces on show will be Anthony Ratcliffe’s beautifully rustic and atmospheric woodcuts, intricately detailed metal sculptures by Ian Thompson and John McComb’s studies of Morris dancers at the annual Longwood Thump Rushcart Festival in Saddleworth.