Grand talent on display

A BRUSH with fame . . . young Jacob Robinson with his painting at the Oldham Open

ARTISTIC flair must run in the McKenna family: grandad and grandson both have had their work proudly displayed at the Oldham Open.

Patrick McKenna (67) and his grandson Jacob Robinson (7) both have works in Gallery Oldham’s biennial exhibition.

Jacob, a Hey with Zion Primary School pupil, had a watercolour tree painted when he was five chosen for the exhibition. Retired civil service worker Patrick, from Moorside, has two paintings on display.

Andrea McKenna, Jacob’s mum and Patrick’s daughter, said: “They were both over the moon when they found out their paintings had been chosen. My dad’s been interested in art for a long time, and some of that must have rubbed off on Jacob.

“We missed the deadline to enter last time, but when it opened again this year I made sure Jacob’s work was put forward. I kept it secret from him until I knew his picture had been chosen. He was so chuffed when I told him.”

The Oldham Open also features ceramics, jewellery and film from local artists and runs until December 5.