George Birrell. Artist and painter of the Scottish coast and villages.

George Birrell trained at the Glasgow School of Art. He taught art and design in Scottish schools

between 1970-80, starting painting full time in 1980. He lectured in art, design and photography from

1985 until 1998. Since then George has taken part in regular joint and group art exhibitions at many

Scottish galleries particularly: Central Art Galleries including Edinburgh Art Galleries, Glasgow Art

Galleries, and Fife Art Galleries. He has also exhibited his art abroad.

George produces beautiful Architectural paintings and Landscape paintings featuring familiar Scottish

images and scenes. The East Coast Scottish towns and fishing villages of Fife hold a special fascination

to him. I’m immediately struck by the bold use of strong colour and stylized compositions.He describes

this as an emotional response to memories and atmosphere of these special places so often depicted in

paintings shown in a number of Lothian art galleries . Vigorous handling of colour, a bold palette and

strong design are all themes in his work. Even his earlier paintings follow these ideas.

Occasionally you can also come across pieces that show a coastal scene where the Haar or mist takes

over the landscape and tones and hues of the same colour are all you can make out.

Typically Georges’ paintings and prints are clear and well constructed compositions. Using bold and

effective use of colour to create an emotional impact. The contrasting colours create areas of light and

shade, drawing viewers typically into the image of a small Scottish village or building. 

As well as a vibrancy of colour, I feel that there is a great sense of peace and serenity in his work.

As a regular visitor to Edinburgh, I’ve been fortunate to regularly see Georges’ beautiful work up close

and believe me it’s well worth the wait !