Known locally as “Hamilton’s Rembrandt”, Peter Coates is an ordinary man with an extraordinary talent.

In his first solo exhibition, Coates presents a striking visual diary profiling the faces of well-known locals, from significant past residents to fellow artists and community heroes.

Coates’ rich and honest portraits are produced using the traditional medium of oil paint on canvas, and his emphasis on psychological dissemination and dramatic chiaroscuro reveal his fascination with the great masters of the Baroque style.

Come face to face with each portrait, exploring your own feelings of identity and ‘localhood’, and draw your own portrait to hang in our interactive Portrait Palace.

See the artist painting live at various times throughout the exhibition in the pop-up Art Room where his paints, brushes and oils are poised for use.