A series of art exhibitions are springing up around Norwich as part of a city-wide celebration of diversity.

Norwich Pride takes place later this month, but in the run-up to the day there have been a range of other events taking place.

One of the biggest is The Pride Arts Trail 2011 and at the heart of that is The Pride Portrait Gallery.

The open exhibition, at St Gregory's Centre for the Arts, features a number of portraits created in a variety of styles, including paintings, drawings and even a brain scan.

Michelle Savage, arts team leader, said: 'The idea is to capture the diversity of people who come to Norwich Pride.'

The Arts Trail runs across July and August, with new exhibitions and displays appearing at different times.

Other exhibits include an ethnic minority photographic display from London by Sonalle, art from Lesvos by Jan Ponsford, and a wide range of other disciplines from graffiti to cupcakes.

'It is our vision to turn Norwich into a rainbow and that is the key job for our arts team more than anyone,' said Michelle.

The Pride Portrait Gallery is open at the centre, in St Gregory's Alley, from Wednesday to Saturday, noon to 6pm. Further details about the trail and Paint with Pride classes will be available from a rainbow market there this Saturday.

The third Norwich Pride takes place on Saturday, July 30. More than 5,000 people are expected to attend the celebration which features a colourful afternoon carnival procession from Chaplefield Gardens.

Another highlight is expected to be Pride Question Time at Fusion in The Forum, which includes international LGBT rights campaigner Peter Tatchell and Norwich North MP Chloe Smith.

For more information visit www.norwichpride.org.uk

Are you organising a community event? Call Evening News reporter Richard Wood on 01603 772423 or email richard.wood@archant.co.uk