B ristol is about to be invaded by the Impossimals. They're the endearing animal characters created by artist Peter Smith and will be lurking when he makes a live gallery appearance at Castle Galleries Bristol on Sunday, February 19, from noon-3pm.

The visit coincides with the launch of The Lost Impossimals, Peter's latest collection, although he first created his well-known flock of striped, rotund animal characters nine years ago.

His latest work is being hailed by his publishers Washington Green Fine Art Publishing, as the "most inventive and creative" yet.

This fantastical collection took three years to develop, research and paint. It depicts an imaginary history – or "twistory" – that charts the pre-historic beginnings of the fictitious "Impossimals".

Peter's make-believe striped characters originated from a small doodle on the back of an old sketchpad.

He explains: "About three years ago I started to look at simple everyday objects and question 'Where do they come from?'

"So many of the objects we are surrounded by have become such a part of everyday life that we forget that all these inventions had a beginning.

"Then I turned to my very own invention, the Impossimals, and began to explore and delve deeper into what their origins could have been.

"Fascinated by the Victorian era, a period in history that was the epitome of discovery and exploration, I became an explorer in my own right, unearthing and excavating the rich, exciting and fascinating beginnings of the Impossimals and creating a Victorian journey of discovery.

"I hope both the story and art will entertain and delight my Impossimal fans – as well as making them smile."

Tim Davey