A MIDDLESBROUGH man has added his own thoughts on people's attitudes to global warming - on canvas.

Khaleel Akhter, who recently finished a Masters in design at the University of Teesside, in Middlesbrough has three paintings in an exhibition, running in the town until this Friday.

He said: "My paintings are in response to current global issues such as climate change and poverty. The figures in each painting - man, woman and child - are wearing headphones, which create a visual barrier between them and what is happening around them.

"I wanted the images to echo how we react to what we see in the media, it is easy to cocoon yourself from these issues when they do not affect you directly."

Eleven other students are exhibiting their work at the show. They are: Benjamin Collier, Katy Eccles, Jonny Gatenby, Selene Graham, Joanne Gunn, Matthew Pritchard, Cara Roberts, Scott Stephenson, Louise Sterling, Charles Tait and Herb Wiersma.

The exhibition, called Fresh from the Oven, features graphic design, spatial design, fine art, product design and design marketing.

It is being held at the Python Gallery, at Royal Middlehaven House, Gosford Street, Middlesbrough.

Michael Hall, programme leader for postgraduate studies in art and design at the university, said: "The combination of skills, ideas, knowledge and innovation shown here are emerging from a melting pot for creativity."

Several students from the course were recently shortlisted for design awards.