Profile
I have always wanted to be an artist.
My art teacher at school- a lady named Kirsty Gibbs was my inspiration. Not only was she a first rate artist, she opened my eyes and my mind to art and culture.
I was born in Hamilton, Scotland in 1962 and went on to study at Glasgow School of Art from 1979- 1983. Among some of my contempories during this time included Gerard M. Burns, Steven Conroy and Peter Howson.
I graduated with a good honours degree in Graphic Design and thought my career lay in advertising. Now married with a mortgage, I quickly realised dreams don’t pay the bills and promptly applied for teacher training college whilst working as a designer in a sign manufacturers.
Amazingly at this pivotal time, I was invited to an interview by Rangers Football Club. David Holmes, the then chairman, wanted an artist to illustrate the club’s history. I got the job and it proved to be a life changing moment, allowing me to work as a full-time artist…and get paid. I never did go to teacher training.
I met a variety of people during this time from all different backgrounds and occupations. Consequently many portraits were commissioned from company directors to race car drivers and countless family portraits too numerous to mention, but every one a valuable experience.
In the 1980’s and 90’s this was pretty much the bulk of my work along with the arrival of my two beautiful children. (Not at the same time I may add.)
In 1997 I was once again invited back to Ibrox, this time to tell the story of Rangers F.C in paint on the walls of the famous Blue Room. I worked up scaffolding for over two years painting portraits of the former managers, chairmen and captains. On the opposite wall a panoramic history of the club’s stadium with Willie Waddell and Davie Cooper depicted in the centre. I was affectionately known as “Michelle-angelo”.
It was probably the most difficult job I have ever had for a variety of reasons, but the most rewarding by far.
The murals gave me the confidence to work in paint. Prior to then I had worked in pencil and oil pastels.
Since their completion, I have, I hope to have grown as an artist.
I now work mainly in oils - perhaps the most difficult of mediums at times, but certainly the most beautiful. I paint the subjects I love most - my family, nature, horses and I am forever grateful that people like them. I am currently working in the Blue Room at Ibrox Stadium, updating the portraits. I completed several years ago. The murals will be unveiled shortly, but in the meantime, welcome to the 'Ainsel' and I hope you enjoy the paintings.