THE drama and atmosphere of the Black Country’s industrial past have been captured in paintings now on display at Dudley Canal Trust’s Portal building.

Ken Wood's vibrant palette captures the roar of the furnaces which would glow all through the night, the thick smoggy air and the lives of workers whose incredible efforts made the area so important during the Industrial Revolution.

The Dudley artist said: "I have exhibited my work at several venues throughout the Black Country and beyond, so when I had the opportunity to show some of my paintings at the fabulously impressive building, the Dudley Canal Trust’s Portal, I jumped at the opportunity."

"We’re delighted to be able to display Ken’s work in our new temporary exhibition space”, said Holly Wain, heritage activities Assistant at Dudley Canal Trust (Trips) Ltd.

“His work is so striking and perfectly captures the atmosphere of the Black Country in years gone by”.

All of the original artwork featured in the free exhibition, which runs until August 22, will be for sale.