EDINBURGH.- Frances Macdonald showcases her coastal travels in her latest solo exhibition The Road to the Isles at The Scottish Gallery this December. Known for capturing the wild and dramatic characteristics of the coast, Macdonald’s paintings present an energetic exploration of the ever-changing essence of the ocean.

Macdonald’s works derive from her intimate understanding of the landscape around her. From her home in Crinan, her studio overlooks the gulf of Corryvreckan, with views across the Sound of Jura. Inspired by such captivating views, Macdonald also often travels to Iona, Staffa, Erraid, Ronachan and Kintyre - her favourite locations to engage with the power of the Atlantic. As well as the water’s harsh tempers, Macdonald captures the softer side of nature in her depictions of summer blooms and the woods across Loch Crinan at Duntrune, encapsulating the different atmospheres in nature with texture and vibrancy to translate her experience.

Drawing influences from Peploe and Cadell, Macdonald’s style favours the juxtaposition of the dark, angular rocks with the white sand. Her method and emphasis with the palette knife creates a dynamic and animated environment, allowing her to capture the essence of the broken skies and raging seas in full force, with rocks transformed into cubist patterns and blocks of colours that highlight the contrasting textures.

Macdonald’s works have been exhibited regularly throughout Scotland and London, as well as internationally, and she has paintings in several private collections, including the Fleming Collection.

After 25 years of painting professionally, her passion and dedication to the landscapes around her remain prominent in her works.

Established in South St. David Street, Edinburgh by Aitken Dott in 1842 as “Gilders, Framers, and Artists' Colourmen”, the firm, as it does today, also exhibited and sold work by the leading Scottish artists of the day. As all areas of the business grew, larger premises were found in Castle Street in 1860 and a new dedicated gallery space was opened in 1897 as “The Scottish Gallery”. The gallery has been situated on Dundas Street since 1992. The Scottish Gallery is celebrating 180 Years of Art in 2022.