And together, John and Michael Bell, are two of Maitland’s favourite sons.

Michael’s work has come into focus this week as part of a new exhibition at the Maitland Regional Art Gallery.

Titled Krazy Kunst, the exhibition is a collection of collaborative woodprint cuts by Michael and Berlin artist Menno Fahl.

“This is the first time we’ve had a show of Michael’s work and he ­produces such fabulous art,” gallery curator Kim Blunt said.

“And the thing that excites us so much about his work is that it’s so accessible to children.

“Michael has a wonderful sense of humour, particularly when it comes to his love of dogs which is really evident in his works.

“And this collaboration with Menno allows kids to come in and see what can be done and that artists can have fun with what they do.”

Born and bred in Maitland alongside his older brother John (founder of Bell Shakespeare) Michael now lives in Lambton and teaches art in Newcastle.

“Michael is very tightly connected to Maitland so he is a wonderful son of the area and we’re just lucky to be able to show his work,” Ms Blunt said.

Krazy Kunst is part of a group of exhibitions being prepared at the gallery. Other works include Power + Colour: Pat Corrigan Indigenous Collection.