SOME striking celebrity portraits are included in an eye-catching exhibition at the World of Glass.

Entitled ‘Under the Influence’, the exhibition by artist Pete Humphreys features a series of well-known faces including Russell Crowe, Daniel Craig and Pierce Brosnan as well as local celebrities Johnny Vegas and actress Emma Rigby.

And, despite its title, the exhibition has nothing to do with alcohol says Pete, who trained at St Helens Art College and worked as a textile designer before becoming a graphic designer..

“It’s about the way we are bombarded every day by advertising, music, film, television, radio and internet campaigns," said Pete, from Newton-le-Willows.

“My exhibition is a collection of portraits of people that have influenced my life and work, whether they know it or not.

“From celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Pierce Brosnan, Russell Crowe, Daniel Craig, and Johnny Vegas to members of my own family and friends, they have all played a part in making me the person and artist that I have become."

Including 25 portraits, Pete worked flat out for a whole year on the exhibits and says he could never have done it without wife Sarah's support.

He also inspired younger son Thomas to paint and has even included one of his pieces in the show.

Rubbing shoulders on the wall alongside the star names are also portraits of Pete's artist friends in St Helens such as Paul Cousins and Drunk Wolf.

“It was Paul and his wife Laraine who first suggested the exhibition and I’ve had great encouragement from other artists and from Hannah Longworth, the World of Glass curator," added Pete.

“In the past I’ve won the Portrait Prize twice in the St Helens Open Art competition but I never dreamed I would end up having my own solo exhibition. It just feels crazy," added Pete, who lives with wife Sarah and sons Andrew and Thomas.

Under the Influence is in the Godfrey Pilkington Gallery at The World of Glass until Friday, November 4.