HILL STREET VIEWS

My love of painting started as far back as I can remember. Apparently I was always drawing from the time I could hold a pencil. Although I really enjoyed painting as a hobby working in oil then later acrylic my formal training in art did not happen till much later. In 1992 my circumstances allowed me more time to spend painting so I decided to work on an idea I had for a childrens' book. This resulted in me having the pleasure of seeing my story and illustrations about a mischievious little mouse called Horace published in 1993.
Inspired by this I started a three year course in art and illustration and gained my advanced diploma at Falkirk Collage in 1999. At this time I had discovered watercolour and the wonderful effects that you could get if you allowed the paint to work for you. I also decided to take advantage of the beautiful scenery and historic buildings that Central Scotland has in abundance as subject matter for my paintings. Scenes such as Wallace's Monument, Stirling Bridge and Stirling Castle have proved very popular both in commissions for original watercolours and in sales of framed reproductions. Later I somewhat reluctently accepted a commission to paint a clients favourite dog. I was nervous because I felt it was not good enough to just to paint the pet you had to capture its' unique personality too. The feed back I recieved for my first commission was good so I was encouraged to continue in this area of art. I took it as a complement when one client said that her nephew had burst into tears when he first unwrapped the painting of his dog she had given him. I am having so much enjoyment in what I am doing now. Teaching watercolour classes at my studio, painting at home and abroad, exhibiting regularly and working on private commissions. La Dolce Vita

I am presently living and working in Alloa where I have converted part of my home into a studio and small gallery. As well as providing me with a bright roomy area in which to create my own art work it also means I am able to run regular weekly workshops. These painting workshops are mainly in watercolour (although I am quite happy to have students working in other mediums if they prefer ) and they cater for all levels of ability. Complete beginners find they are helped and encouraged by the more experienced painters in the group. The lessons cover all areas of painting from choosing the correct meterials to learning the tricks and techniques of working with watercolour. The groups are small with about ten students in each class. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
The courses are on going and are booked in blocks of 5 weeks with one 3 hour lesson per week.

ART CLASSES

TUES 1pm - 4pm 6.30pm - 9.30pm
WED 1pm - 4pm 6.30pm - 9.30pm
THURS 1pm - 4pm

COST PER 5 WEEK BLOCK £30