Sneak preview of video - the day when thousands stripped off in the name of art

SEA of Hull “veterans” gathered to spell out the word Skin in Queen Victoria Square, Hull, ahead of the show which opens at the Ferens Art gallery in April.

Over 3,200 people from across the world descended on the city last summer to strip off and paint themselves blue in the name of art.

Today also saw the release of a short trailer from a "Sea of Hull" short film, by KCOM and Nova Studios - greeted with cheers by a sea of blue faces.

Since the event some people have stayed in touch via Facebook and today everyone was enjoying a return of the feel-good factor last year's event created.

Several women spoke about how it had altered the way they viewed their own bodies.

Nicki Hewson Betts travelled from Todmorden Bridge to take part. She said: “You get to a certain age and you feel uncertain about your body - I just wanted to feel good about myself again. I feel now I can do whatever I set my mind to - it was life-affirming and life-changing.”

Art critics have linked Tunick’s work with the French Impressionist Edouard Manet, whose study for Le Dejeuner Sur L’Herbe, forms part of the exhibition, along with four of Lucian Freud’s nudes and Ron Mueck’s disturbingly real-looking nude sculptures.

Since re-opening five weeks ago more than 90,000 people have come through the art gallery’s doors.

Curator Kirsten Simister said: "The interest and energy generated by Sea of Hull has been incredible and the Ferens thanks everybody who took part to make this event the huge success it has become."

There will be a private view - to be announced shortly - where participants can come and collect their free prints.

There's no dress code - but people have to remain clothed throughout.

Skin opens on April 22.