A computer consultant has developed a program which transforms black and white photographs into impressionist-style works of art.

Mac McPherson has never even picked up a paintbrush but his pictures could be mistaken for a Monet or a Degas.

Rather than developing from a sketch on a canvas, Mac's pieces each start life as simple black and white photographs.

Mac, 43, says his work has also helped his disabled daughter learn about colours.

He said: "My affection for artists like Monet, Degas and Whistler grew in my 20s when I used to visit the cheap cafes and coffee shops in art galleries.

"I became more and more intrigued by their work. Since then, I have wanted to add my stamp on the world of Impressionist art and I hope I have now gone some way towards that."

His technique involves transferring black and white digital images from his camera to his computer before using Paintshop Pro to create the blurred, watercolour look.

He then uses his own programme to paint the pictures on screen.

Mac has sold almost 100 of his images to fans in the UK and has been commissioned to do work for clients in the United States, Germany and France.

His work has also helped his daughter Rachel, 12, differentiate between primary colours.

Rachel has the mental age of a six-year-old after developing meningitis as a baby.

Mac, who lives in Burgess Hill, said: "Rachel loves taking photographs and is always trying to hijack my camera. Although she does not have the physical ability to transfer the camera shots on to the computer, she takes pictures and colours them by herself.

"She is now more aware of colour balance and is able to recognise the different primary colours. It's great to see."

Mac is working on a similar programme to replicate the affect of oil paintings.

Anyone who would like to contact Mac should call 01444 246391 or visit his web site at www.max-studios.co.uk