Susanna McLean

Pastel, oil, mixed media and watercolour artist based in the Highlands

My art career started quite early, when at the age of three I was caught by my father in what he described as an “artistic mood” swirling my mother’s bright red lipstick over a newly decorated wall  in their bedroom! Therefore, it was no surprise to them when I announced I was going to study fashion, clothing and textile design at Canterbury College of Art. The 4 year course gave me a great foundation into understanding colour texture and the body form.  After college, I was invited by Jane Asher to illustrate her book on fancy dress costume.  I loved meeting Jane and her family and felt I was on my way as an artist and designer.  I particularly loved textile design, so after I completed my course, I went on to study interior design and have spent the last 38 years in this practice.  It was only after my move to Scotland in 2014, as a “lifestyle change” that I finally made time for art.  The wonderful countryside is my inspiration.  I love to watch the change in colour as the seasons turn.  I walk with my camera taking photographs of whatever catches my eye.  I sometimes paint from those photographs or from memory depending on the materials I am using.  I paint in oil, watercolour pastel and mixed media.  More recently I have dabbled in digital art.