John Mellencamp - John Mellencamp Opens Art Exhibition

The Hurts So Good hitmaker has put a total of 49 paintings, created over the last four decades, on display at the Tennessee State Museum.

The collection features character pieces, self-portraits and several autobiographical works, including images of his children and his actress girlfriend Meg Ryan, but Mellencamp admits his art isn't always well-received.

He tells People magazine, "Most people I do portraits of hate them. I'm aiming for a more emotional reflection. If you want a perfect likeness, take a picture."

Nothing Like I Planned: The Art of John Mellencamp will run until 10 June (12).