AN ART exhibition is being held at a university this week in memory of a lecturer who died from cancer.

Sunderland-born artist Michael Holland, who was head of painting at Northumberland University, in Newcastle, between 1991 and 1993, died earlier this year.

The exhibition is in memory of his skills as a teacher and an artist and follows a display of his work in Birmingham, where he also worked.

Helen Baker, subject leader for fine art at Northumbria and a former colleague of Mr Holland, said: "He was a very popular man who had a very warm character. He made teaching a major part of his life and gave very generously of his time to students.

"The universities which have known Michael felt it was appropriate to have this exhibition, and his widow also felt very strongly that his work should be seen."

His mother Louise, 80, who lives in Nookside, Sunderland, is also delighted that her son's work will be seen in the North-East.

She said: "I'm very happy that Michael was thought of so highly in the various places he worked, and that people are so keen to keep his memory alive. This is a great tribute to him both as an artist and as an individual."

Mr Holland studied at the Royal College of Art in London and won a Rome Scholarship, which enabled him to study in the Italian capital.

The exhibition includes paintings, drawings and etchings. It will be held in the Foyer Gallery, in Squires Building, on the city campus until November 7.

Opening times are 9am to 5pm and entrance is free.