Contrasting local landscapes feature in a striking new exhibition opening today at a Cannock gallery.

The exhibition explores the impact of the communities on the landscape of South Staffordshire.

It has drawn inspiration from the mining community of Cannock Chase during the 19th and 20th centuries to the city of Lichfield prior to its rapid growth in the latter part of the last century.

The spires of Lichfield Cathedral hang next to images of the headframes of former collieries around Cannock in the show by Burntwood artist David Brown.

His vibrant pictures include people at work and play, contrasting the theological and rural life in and around Lichfield with the mining and forestry activities of Cannock Chase.

The paintings, in acrylic, incorporate a wide variety of styles and techniques, making it a richly detailed exhibition, say gallery staff.

The display, called Heavenly Spires and Headframes, launches the 2012 season at The Museum of Cannock Chase on Valley Road, Hednesford.

Visitors can view it Monday to Friday from 11am to 4pm, with last admission at 3.30pm.  Admission to the exhibition is free.

For more information, call the museum on 01543 877666 or log onto the website which can be found at www.can nockchasedc.gov.uk/museum.

It will run until February 24.