Michael McVeigh
New works in from Michael McVeigh
New to the gallery is the work of Michael McVeigh. Born in 1957 in the post-war council estate in Dundee, Michael was one of five children. He left school with no formal qualifications; however he wanted to be an artist and so began, unannounced, going to classes at Duncan of Jordanstone Art College, his presence being challenged eventually. James Morrison, then one of the lecturers, formalised his position and accepted him as a full-time student based only on his drawings and painting.
His paintings depict everyday life in Scotland and the Scottish people – albeit largely from his imagination – the subject of each piece, though rooted in reality, blossoms and grows into something fantastical and full of feeling when infused with his own personal perceptions and take on a dreamlike quality, and are abundant with poetic imagery.
Many of his paintings focus on city life in Scotland, with all its subcultures and traditions. Edinburgh streets, Scottish pipes and drums, harbour scenes and pubs, fisherfolk and folk musicians all come together to convey the character of a busy and burling merry-go-round city – in full swing.
His paintings and etchings are now available in established Glasgow and Edinburgh galleries and are also to be found in prominent collections throughout the UK.