LIVERPOOL.- A striking image of pop star Rihanna by a local teenager is going on display at the Walker Art Gallery amongst paintings by famous artists like Monet and Lowry. The portrait is part of Reclaim Your Space, an exhibition of 71 works by talented young people on display at the Walker Art Gallery and World Museum from 25 March – 18 April 2010.

Reclaim Your Space is giving emerging artists from local schools an extraordinary opportunity to exhibit in venues that house rare artefacts and world-class masterpieces. The scheme is part of Liverpool City Region’s Find Your Talent pathfinder, a government initiative which aims to get young people into creative and cultural activities.

The colourful Rihanna Pop Art by budding artist Jessica Williams, aged 15, of North Liverpool Academy creates a contemporary contrast with the Walker’s grand portraiture of historic figures such as Holbein’s Henry VIII. Another striking painting showing at World Museum is My Journey and Liverpool by Sally Carson, aged 17, of Archbishop Blanch School which depicts the city peppered with construction and roadwork signs.

A number of styles and mediums have been chosen by young people to express their outlooks, interests and concerns. Works in watercolour, acrylic, photography, collage, mixed media and even recycled materials are featured, bringing an eclectic feel to the display. Themes like Identity, Diversity, Being Young Now, Journeys, Environment and The City are explored. Helen MacBryde, Communities Manager at National Museums Liverpool says:

"This opportunity highlights the talents of young people from across Merseyside and reflects the creativity, skills and diversity of the next generation of artists. We’re delighted to see their work displayed in our venues alongside the masters and hope this will encourage them and others to develop their creative talents.”