Painting the Fairy Rock
Ailsa by Night | Acrylic on canvas | 50cm x 70cm
Near the coast where I live is a small island called Ailsa Craig, which is Gaelic for Fairy Rock. It is uninhabited, apart from the seabirds, in particular a large Gannet colony (Europe’s largest), and its granite is used to make the majority of the world’s curling stones. Quite impressive for such a tiny place.
When I was little I was captivated by the idea of living on a tiny island with only wild creatures and birds for company (almost as much as I was taken with the idea of living in a Gypsy caravan!), and so I have always enjoyed looking across the sea to Ailsa Craig. First as a child visiting the coast for the day from Glasgow, and now as a coastal resident.
The island looks different depending on where you are viewing it from, looming large and volcanic or small and almost conical. The colours change too, as with the shades of the sea, as the light shifts throughout the day.
For those familiar with my work, you will know that I don’t usually paint real locations. I prefer the freedom to create atmosphere and a sense of otherness, rather than be restricted with replicating a physical location. However, Ailsa Craig carries a particular appeal, and its changeling appearance lends credence to its fairy moniker. As real places go, it carries a sense of wonder.
Even so, I haven’t painted this wee island from a particular viewpoint, but an imaginary spot on the mainland, with a little moonlit hare taking in the scenery…
“Do not spoil the wonder with haste!”
J.R.R Tolkein
For those wishing to buy artwork…
Sorry I have been taking a while to make prints and artwork available for sale again!
I have been enjoying taking much-needed time away from the commerce side of being an artist, a sabbatical of sorts, and rediscovering making art for its own joyful sake.
As such I haven’t yet re-set up my online shop, but it is in the pipeline (or should I say, on my far-too-long to-do list).
In the meantime, if you are after anything specific please get in touch and I will be happy to arrange a delivery.
