Sylvester Stallone to exhibit his paintings in France

Following the opening, VIPs will gather at the Place Massena with the mayor of the city for a celebratory dinner

Many of the 'Expendables' star's paintings are inspired by his movie roles, or feature references to the likes of Michael Jackson, James Dean and his ex-wife Brigitte Nielsen.

Speaking about his 2010 portrait of the late 'Thriller' singer, Stallone has previously said: "I always felt that Michael Jackson was one of the great dichotomies.

"An illusionist even more than a singer .?.?. he created a character that wasn't even him anymore .?.?. There was an evil side .?.?. a theatrical evil."

Though his work is going on display, the 'Rocky' star - who previously admitted it can take up to 15 years to finish one piece of art - won't be showing everything he has created.

He previously said: "The ones that I realise are just hopeless, I give to my brother."

The former art student has previously showcased his work in Russia, Switzerland and Miami and thinks he is a better painter than actor.

He has said: "I think I'm a much better painter than an actor,.

"It's much more personal and I'm allowed to just do what I want to do. Quite often in acting you have to play a certain part, you cannot speak as much as you want to speak. I suppose the heroes don't talk much, you have to be very stoic."