Stuart Sutcliffe was being hailed by some as an artistic genius before his premature death from a brain haemorrhage in 1962. Now the ex-Prescot Grammar School boy's legacy will be commemorated at Prescot Museum.

A close friend of John Lennon, he was a bassist for The Beatles for only a year and a half, but he was a major influence on the development of the Fab Four, especially their distinctive look.

He left the band to concentrate on his painting, but tragically died shortly afterwards. His story is told in the film Backbeat.

The exhibition of his work includes pieces reproduced as high quality prints on paper, steel, glass, canvas, banner material and kappa board. Five of the works on show can even be purchased as limited edition framed paper prints – a must for Beatles collectors.

The exhibition offers a special insight into Stuart's particular and celebrated creativity with interesting supporting comments from his peers, teachers and fellow band members. The breadth of Stuart’s images and artistic expertise is highlighted through an exciting use of high-tech reproduction processes on different materials.

These exclusive Stuart Sutcliffe prints are usually permanently exhibited in St Helens at 5athegallery.

The exhibition runs from May 5 to July 26 at Prescot Museum on Church Street, Prescot, Merseyside. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am-1pm and 2-5pm, and on Sundays from 2-5pm, and Mondays by appointment (excluding bank holidays). For more information, contact the museum on 0151 430 7787, or email prescot.museum@knowsley.gov.uk. Admission is free.