DARLINGTON artist John Degnan, who has just celebrated 35 years as a professional painter and etcher, is the subject of a book produced to coincide with an exhibition of his work at the Masham Gallery in North Yorkshire.

Written by fellow artist Ian Scott Massie, the book follows his career and working techniques, covering his upbringing in Darlington, working life in Durham and the beginning of his career to final settling in Bowes.

The exhibition, entitled 35, opens tomorrow and comprises paintings and prints. It is his first solo show at the gallery in Masham market place and its opening exhibition of the year.

Images in the book number more than those on display, some dating as far back as 1956.

Josie Beszant, who has run the gallery for 20 years, has known the artist since 1994 and intended to write the book herself. But on visit to Degnan’s home last October accompanied by Ian Scott Massie, it was decided he was the one for the job.

In the foreword, she writes: “The longer I watched John and Ian chatting the more I realised that Ian has a unique perspective on John’s history and work, and how much they share in common”.

Born five years apart at opposite ends of the country, both artists worked in Durham in the 1970s and share similar influences. Degnan has exhibited widely in England, including a sell-out show at Harrods. Other places include the Mall Gallery, London, and Christies Contemporary Art Gallery in Farnham.

His attention to detail and skill and craftsmanship are explored in the book along with an indepth look at the many mediums he uses. It is the sixth book on artists in the North produced by the gallery. It costs £9.50, and can be ordered by emailing enquiry@mashamgallery.co.uk or through local booksellers.

The exhibition continues until April 28.