Hi
Michael,
Many
thanks for taking the time to chat with us.
Having studied both Textile Design and Business Studies in Glasgow, I worked as a Personnel Manager in the Health Service and in Higher Education at the Glasgow School of Art, before focusing on Art Coaching. I have my own studio and exhibit in various galleries. My artistic subjects are mainly landscapes and wildlife and I run my own art courses in Arran, and teach Art in Italy and Greece. I am also trying to learn Spanish!
What do you enjoy most about being a painting tutor?
I
love interacting with students and supporting their personal
development as well as encouraging them to enjoy art and have fun in
the learning process.
And
why painting holidays in Italy?
I
was running my own art course in the Island of Arran and one of the
participants liked my approach and style, and recommended me to
Flavours Holidays. I had never been to Italy before and was delighted
to be teaching in such a wonderful country that has been an
inspiration to artists for centuries -painting in Italy is everything
one could hope for as an artist!
Everything!
The magnificent landscapes, the buildings, the people, the food...the
overall character, art and unique culture of these places… I could
go on!
Do
you find much time for your own work?
I
think it is important as a Tutor not to become stagnant - doing my
own art keeps me on my toes and encourages me to explore new ideas. I
am currently working on paintings of Islay, a series entitled ‘the
Italian connection’, as well as a Skyros series, and a compilation
of dog sketches.
Where
would you say most of your inspiration comes from?
There’s
a quote from a book that I refer to in my classes called ”You Can
Draw” by Kenneth Jamieson, which says: “as soon as your eyes are
opened, your environment becomes a richer place”. My main
inspiration comes from constantly opening my eyes and enjoying what I
see.
Are
there any painters or artists that really inspire you?
Lots,
such as Monet and Cezanne – their style and approach inspire me.
However coming from Glasgow I am perhaps biased and no one is more
inspiring than the Glasgow Boys!
Have
you ever been on a painting holiday yourself?
Lots
of times! I have always built a bit of free time into my working
life, where I can escape and paint to my heart’s content! It was on
a painting holiday in Skyros in Greece that led to the company seeing
my art and appointing me the following year as a facilitator.
Is
there anywhere we can see some your work?
Come
on a Flavours Holiday and I’ll show you some! Or you can also see
my work and find out more about me on the Gallery page of my website:
http://www.ionaart.com/
And
finally, what advice would you give someone who’s considering
coming on a Painting holiday in Tuscany?
A
lot of people would like to go on a painting holiday but don’t,
through worry or self-doubt. My advice is to just “go for it” and
you will be able to develop your art at a pace that suits you. In
addition to the friendly company and excellent Tutors, the Tuscan
scenery and food is to “die for”!!
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