ICONIC paintings created by one of the city's most famous sons have taken on a whole new dimension.

Bedecked in period costume, volunteers transformed themselves into characters immortalised by Sir Joshua Reynolds to highlight an exhibition of his work at the City Museum and Art Gallery.

"Our event was a chance for the public to interact with and learn more about Reynolds, who's a really important local figure," said Amelia Hunton of the Young Explainers, art history and fine art students who work with the museum and organised the event. "He painted a number of the region's most wealthy families and some of England's most well- known celebrities from the 18th century."

Fellow-Young Explorer Emalee Beddoes said: "The costumes were fantastic and the event was brilliant."

Sir Joshua Reynolds: The Acquisition of Genius is at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery until Saturday, February 20.

Website: www.plymouth.gov.uk/sirjoshuareynolds.