JONATHAN LUXON BA
Jonathan is a paints with oils in the style of painterly realism. Jonathan was a semi-finalist in the televised 2019 series of SkyArts Portrait Artist of the Year (his portrait of actor Simon Callow was chosen by Mr. Callow as his selected work). He has exhibited with the Royal Society of Scottish Artists, the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. Local exhibitions include selected work at the Heinzel Gallery Aberdeen, and solo exhibitions at Logie Steading Art Gallery and the Moray Art Centre. He undertakes portrait commissions and has an enduring love of figurative painting. Based at Orchard Road Studios in Forres, Jonathan also teaches local art groups.
Jonathan has a BA (Hons) in Fine Art from Canterbury Christ Church University.
ESTHER ARMSTRONG
I’ve been ‘Arting’ for quite a few years now (too scared to work it out!).
I mainly paint landscapes (the light is amazing in the Highlands), wildlife and animals, and really enjoy using soft pastels, although I also use the other mediums too.
I like to encourage people to get over their fear and have a go, then hopefully I can help them along as it’s really rewarding to see the pleasure it can give as they explore and improve.
It’s not a competition, everyone’s different in style, and what one likes the other doesn’t, so as long as you enjoy yourself….. I reckon that’s the goal.
Work wise I tutor a regular weekly class and am the art tutor for Skibo Castle guests.
I also get invited to run workshops from various Art Groups, sell through galleries and accept commissions.
My work can be viewed on:
https://www.facebook.com/estherarmstrongart
Happy Arting!!
KAY MACDONALD
I have loved painting and drawing since childhood.
I loved Art at school, scoring A’s in my exams, securing me a place at Art College. Which, due to being a quiet and unconfident teenager and having to travel, I didn’t accept the course!
So self taught and roll on a few years, I was still enjoying my art and doing the occasional pet portrait and painting for friends and family.
It wasn’t until I moved to Nairn in 2017 that I was able to seriously focus on my art, drawing Pet Portrait commissions in coloured pencils. We converted our potting shed into a small studio where I now work from in my garden studio.
I also joined Nairn Arts Society in 2017 which was a revelation of all things arty, the hall, the people and our now ‘art family’. My art style has grown and changed over the years, preferring now to mostly paint in Acrylics. Living next to the sea is a constant source of inspiration, whether it be seascapes, woodlands, wildlife or buildings. Normally painting with lots of colour!
I enjoy using various different techniques. It’s amazing how many household items can be introduced into a painting! The feeling of having a vision in mind and seeing it come to life is a special thing which I never tire of. Art is not only naturally creative but relaxing and fun. Whether you are painting, drawing, crafting or enjoying walking round an Art Gallery. Art is personal to the artist and the viewer.
I also love sharing the knowledge I have gained, during regular art sessions in Laing Hall or tutoring a workshop. Art and all it’s magic is for sharing, for the teacher and the student.
Two of my favourite sayings……
Every day is a school day – learning something new is exciting!
A piece of Art always starts with the ugly stage – be patient and the beauty will appear. J
Most importantly, always have fun and Enjoy! Kay
Registered Charity Number : SC017870.