PAUL Horton, "the people's artist", will make a book-signing appearance at Castle Galleries, York, on March 13 from 11am to 3pm as part of his In My Life tour.

The exhibition opens on March 5 at the Castle Galleries and marks the launch of Horton's first book, celebrating his artistic career to date.

In My Life brings together 13 signed limited-edition prints, together with a portfolio of the iconic characters created by the pastel artist from Birmingham.

Sometimes dubbed a modern-day Lowry, he draws upon his Midlands background to produce quirkily humorous work with universal themes.

"In My Life is essentially a celebration of love and hope, incorporating the popular characters and themes that have become the cornerstone of my world," Horton says. "I like to think I open the door for people to enter my world of imagination and make of it what they will."

Opening hours at Castle Galleries are 9.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday; 11am to 5pm on Sundays. All work is for sale.

Updated: 08:33 Friday, March 04, 2005