SOUTHEND’S old town centre library has been converted into a thriving art gallery, showcasing some of the town’s best talent.

The Beecroft Art Gallery relocated to the former Central Library, in Victoria Avenue, Southend, earlier this summer, but has now been officially opened.

The launch coincided with a new exhibition from Martin Huxter, originally from Great Wakering, who painted the ancestors of a Dutch family originally painted by Van Gogh in the late 19th Century.

Graham Longley, deputy leader of Southend Council, said: “The Beecroft Art Gallery is thriving in its new location, attracting a steady stream of visitors, so we hope as many people as possible will continue to come and see the extra special exhibitions on show here in Southend – such as this one so directly linked to Van Gogh.”

Descendants of Gordina de Groot, who was a model for Van Gogh’s famous painting called the Potato Eaters, were present at the launch of the exhibition. The picture inspired Martin to paint the New Potato Eaters, showing three generations of the family related to Gordina de Groot.

Speaking of his work, Martin said: “I was fascinated by the way Van Gogh dealt with the difficulties of painting a family of poor working folk, sitting down to eat a simple dish of potatoes in a dimlylit interior.”

“I was eager to recall Van Gogh’s deliberate approach in my own picture.

Whereas Van Gogh’s peasants lived under one roof, presentday social conditions mean this modern family has become dispersed and opportunities to spend time together are limited.

“Despite this, they remain close and are still moved by their ancestor’s brief encounter with Van Gogh 130 years ago.”