Biographical Details:
Born in Motherwell Scotland 1932
Studied in London at Harrow School of Art and Hornsey College of Art.
Holds a London University degree in Art Teaching
Past President of The Pastel Society
A Royal West of England Academician
Member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours
Member of the Royal Society of Marine Artists
Past Governor of the Federation of British Artists
Personal Statement:
Since my student days I have believed in gaining knowledge from direct observation. Drawing is very important to me and through accuracy in drawing I try to explore shape and form and discover in a subject its potential for a painting.
I paint in a variety of media including mixed media depending on specific exhibition requirements. I regard the composition and content of a painting as more important than the medium, but sometimes I instinctively choose a particular sketch to work from because I visualise it in a certain medium. I can’t explain why this is so.
Marine and industrial subjects, buildings in the landscape, figures and still life appeal to me, but whatever the subject, I am searching for its abstract qualities. In my paintings I try to keep a balance between realism and abstract patterns full of strong rhythms and invention, distilled from my drawings. I see the world as a kaleidoscope of broken lines, shapes and colour masses, sometimes fragmented into jewels of colour. These are the qualities I seek in my work and am continually striving to achieve.
After many years I am still searching for new ideas and ways to express them. I am never satisfied with what I have done and am always thinking and hoping that the next painting is going to be the best.
Awards:
Has received many prestigious awards, and exhibited extensively in both solo and group exhibitions in the UK, Europe and North America.
Commissions and Collections:
Alcoa International Inc. British Telecom, Clwyd CC, CWS Ltd, Hampshire CC, Consumers Association, Laing plc, Newsweek International, National Museum of Wales, Nuclear Electric, Proctor & Gamble, Royal Bank of Scotland, Royal Caribbean Line, Whitbread plc. etc.
Publications:
Moira is the author of several books on drawing and painting
Publishers:
Published by A&C Black London UK:
Imaginative Still Life
Painting & Drawing Boats
Draw Still Life
Draw Nature
Draw in Brush & Ink
Published by A&C Black & North Light USA:
Painting in Mixed Media
Published by L Harper Collins, London UK:
Painting in Mixed Media (soft back)
Learn to Draw Boats
Learn to Paint Gouache
Learn to Paint Mixed Media
Published by David & Charles, Devon UK:
Artist's Drawing Book
‘Sketchbook Secrets’ is her latest book, published by David & Charles
in the UK and F&W Publications Cincinnati in North America.
