Fermanagh-based Scottish artist's creative journey

Here she talks to The Impartial Reporter about this journey, what inspires her work, and what her art means to her.

Where are you from and where are you currently based?

I was born and reared near Loch Lomond in Scotland. I came here in 1991 to work for 11 months in Desmonds factory, but I loved it so much I stayed.

I am now lucky enough to live in Florencecourt looking out at Benaughlin and Cuilcagh.

What is your artistic background? Are you self-taught or did you go to art school/do courses?

I grew up in a very creative house. My mum was a textile artist and embroidery tutor and my dad was a watercolour artist, wood carver and instrument maker in his spare time.

He was a marine draftsman, so I get my tendency for perfection and attention to detail from him along with his ‘can-do’ attitude!

I studied Art to Higher level (the Scottish equivalent of A-Levels), and after getting a Degree in Clothing Design and Manufacture, I started my couture bridal business in the Buttermarket.

I also worked as an Art Technician, which got me back to fine art again. Nowadays I create my own art and facilitate creative workshops alongside my Reiki practice.

What inspires your art?

I am inspired by the natural world, the shapes and texture in the landscape, the light, the plants, animals and birds we’re lucky to have here in Fermanagh.

When I learn a new technique I love to share it with others, so that’s why I enjoy teaching in my workshops.

Then my students inspire me with their own creations.

Who/what are your biggest influences?

I would have to say my parents, who always encouraged me to have a go and experiment and were always making something!

They were both artists, but would never have claimed that title. It’s taken me a long time to be comfortable saying I’m an artist.

Is there a specific place that you do your work? Do you have a studio?

Since I rented a studio for a month in the Courthouse in Dowra last August I have carved out a space to do my artwork as I realised how much easier it is to be creative when I have a dedicated space. Before that it was the dining room table.

What has been your most ambitious piece, to date?

My White Stag, inspired by a photo by Stephanie of 'On Your Door Steph'.

As soon as I saw it I knew I wanted to paint it. It took a long time, building up lots of layers and finishing with metallic detail to the antlers. I’m pretty happy with that one.

Also, in The Entrance to Newgrange, I feel I captured the energy of the place, although painting all those spirals made me dizzy!

What different artistic media do you use and which is your favourite?

I work mainly in acrylic to paint and print, sometimes watercolour. I also work in textiles, dyeing and printing on fabric, collaging pieces together and stitching over the piece.

I make felted pieces too. I get bored easily, so it really helps me to work with different media to keep my interest.

Sometimes an element from a painting will find its way into a textile piece, and vice versa.

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on a series of collected natural objects displayed on printed and painted backgrounds. Some of these are on sale at the moment in The Coach House at Florencecourt.

Do you exhibit your work anywhere?

I’m planning to have an exhibition when I feel I have enough work together. If I think about it too much, it stops me being creative, so for now I’m just enjoying the creative process. In the meantime I get my work digitised in The Enniskillen Photo Shop, and they have prints of some of my paintings for sale.

Any new artistic ventures planned for the rest of 2023?

I’m off to the Isle of Eigg for a week’s retreat soon. I hope to be doing lots of sketching and taking photos to inspire me when I return.

In August I am running a Creative Summer School for adults with seven different workshops in a range of media.

What has been your favourite project, to date?

My latest one is always my favourite! I get so immersed and wake up thinking about other ways I could work or things to include.

What are you up to when you aren’t creating art?

We have two lively dogs, so they always get me out walking and I love taking photos. I’m a Geopark Guide, so I’m usually somewhere in one of the many beautiful sites, with or without the dogs.

My husband and I both love live music and comedy, but sometimes nothing beats a glass of wine and a good movie in front of the fire.

How would you describe your artistic style?

Eclectic! I discovered I really love making abstract paintings last year. I tend to be a perfectionist and find Touch Drawing really helps me to free up my work.

The drawings inspired a series of abstracts, but I also love to paint in a more realistic style and a balance of both is good for me.

What does your art mean to you?

Creativity is an energy and I find if I don’t use it to make something, it tends to turn inward and become self destructive.

Putting that energy out onto the page or fabric is a way to help me to be well, to see myself reflected back, and get to know myself better, and when someone else connects with what you make, that’s really special, but that’s not why I do it.

My Facebook and Instagram pages are found at https://www.facebook.com/craftingyoursoul/ and also Morag Donald (@creatinghealing).