THE physical act of viewing pictures or sculpture is being explored in Dot-Art’s first exhibition of 2011.

Stephen Collett is showing a series of large-scale oil paintings that challenge the viewer to consider their own reaction not only to these works but to all pieces of art.

The Liverpool-based painter has been interested in all forms of art since he sold his first painting at the age of five.

As well as public art projects and artist-in-residence schemes, he has recently had solo shows in Liverpool, London and New York.

He is also currently planning future exhibitions in Berlin and Paris.

His new show, A Closer Look, concentrates on people’s physical responses to art works, considering how viewing a piece in a gallery space makes the viewer feel.

Collett says: “I wanted to produce a collection which responded to the interaction between the artist and the viewer.

“Art isn’t art if it doesn’t provoke a reaction and as an artist I have become fascinated by the way that reaction is expressed.”

The exhibition is open to the public at Dot-art, 16 Queen Avenue, off Castle Street, Liverpool, from noon-6pm Monday to Friday or call 0845 017 6660 for an appointment.