Published: Wednesday, 29th October, 2008 10:15
Top honour for retired teacher
By Ewan McInnes
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James with one of his watercolour paintings
Pic by: Petra Boyce
A RETIRED teacher, who counts the Queen as one of his collectors, will show off his paintings at one of the country’s most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions.
James Spence along with his artist wife Anda Paterson, have been chosen to display their watercolour paintings and drawings at the Royal Glasgow Institute’s (RGI) hotly-contested annual exhibition.
The RGI is an exclusive members-only constitution which artists have to earn the right to be a member.
James said: “It is a major achievement to be accepted into the institute and because we are members of the RGI we have the privilege of showing our art.
Anda with one of her drawings
Pic by: Petra Boyce
“Anda and I are thoroughly looking forward to the exhibition.”
The retired couple share a life-long love of art and have been members of the RGI for a combined 35 years.
They both taught their craft during some memorable times at Dumbarton Academy and cannot wait for the exhibition to start next month.
James said: “We are retired now, but art is our life."
The couple have lived in Cardross for 35 years.
James added: “The Queen has one of my works in her collection which she has had for twenty-five years.
“It was given to her as she is a member of the Glasgow Art Club and she graciously accepted my work, so I have the right to claim that one of my pieces is in the Queen’s collection.”
James’ work, Mares of Diomedes will be on show, alongside Anda’s drawings, at The Mitchell Library in Glasgow from November 7-30.
Admission costs £2 and £1 for concessions.
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