A new exhibition on the early life of Norman McLaren – the Oscar-winning filmmaker from Stirling – has launched at the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum.

‘A Dream of Stirling: Norman McLaren’s Scottish Dawn’ uses material from the University of Stirling’s extensive Norman McLaren Archive along with items donated by the McLaren family.

The display aims to provide an insight into McLaren’s childhood and looks at the influence of his Scottish upbringing on his filmmaking career.

The free exhibition, running until 22 June, is being delivered as part of McLaren 2014 - a nationwide programme celebrating the centenary of the birth of the pioneering Scottish artist, filmmaker and musician.

Norman McLaren is best known for his work for the National Film Board of Canada - winning an Academy Award® in 1952 for his short film Neighbours.

Other awards included a BAFTA for Best Animated Film for Pas de Deux in 1969 and best short film at the Cannes Film Festival for“Blinkity Blank in 1955.

Karl Magee, the University Archivist who curated the new exhibition said: “We’re really excited to have the opportunity to display material from the Norman McLaren Archive in the Stirling Smith which is literally right across the road from where he grew up.”