Most of Newcastle will recognise busker John Pittman, but not many know he is a man of many talents.

Mr Pittman’s art is the focus of a new exhibition, presented by Mission Australia, which is running in Hamilton’s community art space today and Monday.

Mr Pittman has been painting for 35 years and has held two exhibitions at the Gibson Street Gallery.

He has been writing since receiving a typewriter as a 21st birthday present, and he wants to take his busking a step further and play at the Sydney Opera House.

‘‘I’d like to play the big pipe organ,’’ Mr Pittman said.

Some of his artworks have unique names; there’s a self-portrait called Ninjart and an abstract piece titled Meet Pythagoras and Tomato Sauce.

‘‘That was one I couldn’t name, so I named it that,’’ he said.

All the paintings are for sale.

One titled Two Hippies Playing Bowls has been the subject of a bidding war.

‘‘I want to make a quid,’’ Mr Pittman said.

‘‘I paint them all in my flat at Bar Beach.

‘‘I create with lots of music ... that inspires my art and my writing.’’

The exhibition is open at the community art space at 44 Beaumont Street from 1pm to 5pm today and Monday.