by Seonaid Clarke

© Seonaid Clarke 2010 - Terms & Conditions

As I am mostly self-taught, much of what I have learned is through home study, trial and error, a lot of experimenting (which can be frustrating and fun!) and most of all an in-built desire to create.

For as long as I can remember I have loved to paint and draw. This love was nurtured and greatly encouraged by my parents and also my grandfather's war friend, Alasdair Stewart. As we grew up we spent many summers in Port of Ness, where my mother grew up. Often I would wander off to find a quiet spot above the harbour where I would spend hours sketching the surrounding coast, the quay, it's boats and sometimes an old 'bodach' with his pipe and cap!

During my High School education, my preference leaned towards figure drawing. I loved the challenge of trying to achieve a true likeness of my subject. This is something I still very much enjoy today, particularly working in graphite, pastels and oils.

Although I managed to continue painting & drawing when my children were young, as soon as I returned to work the added demands on my time kept multiplying and I rarely got a moment to spend on artwork.

However, at the end of at the end of 2005, I made a major life changing decision and after 14 years in the aviation industry, I resigned to follow my dream of a career in art.

It was exciting and scary at the same time, but I received so much support and encouragement from my husband, family and friends that my fears soon dissipated. My only regret is that neither my Mum or Alasadair are here to see that I am finally doing what they always wanted me to do!

I still have to pinch myself that I am finally living the dream!

As well as receiving commissions in the UK I have sold my work in the US, Canada, Germany, New Zealand and Australia.