The Director of Arts Tasmania, Katherine Hough, today encouraged art-lovers to come and view the work of Tasmanian artist, Alan Young, in his new show Upbeat at the 146 ArtSpace gallery.

"Alan Young is a talented Tasmanian artist who has developed his practice over a number of years, and Upbeat is a fantastic opportunity to view his latest work," Ms Hough said.

"Alan's work has launched him onto the national stage with a recent successful exhibition at the Ray Hughes Gallery in Sydney as well as winning the Bay of Fires Art Prize earlier this year."

Ms Hough said the paintings on show in Upbeat have a positive and personal focus.

"Alan's paintings are a response to encounters in his life and often reflect on characters he meets and their intersection with place," said Ms Hough.

Alan has been successful in receiving funding through the Arts Tasmania Arts and Disability Fund and was also a resident of 146 ArtStudios in 2012.

"Arts Tasmania is committed to trying to remove the barriers that may prevent emerging and professional artists with disability from realising their ambitions.

"Alan is an exciting Tasmanian artist and I am delighted that Arts Tasmania's programs have been able to provide support to the development of his career," said Ms Hough.

Upbeat opened today at at 146 ArtSpace, 146 Elizabeth St, Hobart. Gallery hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday.