I started painting later in my life
My name is Bill McKinlay I live on the coast at Dunure, in South Ayrshire and among other interests I’m an amateur artist.
I started sketching around 10 years ago. My wife had been learning to paint and one evening, when I was bored, I saw her paints and thought to myself “I wonder if I could do that”. I managed a reasonably good representation of a vase of flowers and decided to keep it going. I initially sketched household objects and ornaments before properly trying to paint.
Living in this beautiful fishing village, I am spoilt for choice for inspiring views to paint. I like to use oils because I love the smell of linseed oil and turpentine. But they are also more forgiving, and you can rework them. I have tried watercolours and acrylic but oils are my favourite medium.
The benefits of joining an art club
I became a member of the Troon Art Club a few years ago which has helped me get to know other local artists. I am also a member of the Ayr Art Circle. I have really enjoyed learning from other people. It’s great for socialising and often a good laugh. I enjoy the demonstration evenings to learn tips and hints from other artists. I got roped into the committee at the Troon Art Club but it’s a great way to make connections and grow my creative network which is useful for the ART project.
You can see my work displayed on my Instagram @dunure.art
Also some of my work is displayed in the Troon Art Club Summer Exhibition.
Ayrshire art galleries
If you are visiting Ayrshire and enjoy art then I highly recommend:
- Maclaurin Art Gallery in Roselle
- Irvine Harbour Arts Centre
- Irvine Harbour Art Studios
- Electric Brae Gallery in Croy
- Culzean Artists in Residence
ART Inspiration
I became a trustee of the ART project because I was greatly impressed on a visit to Colinton by the beautiful mural painted through the old railway tunnel, and I could visualise just how transformative this art installation will be for our own perfect venue here in Alloway.
I’m a retired Offshore Installation Manager and bring experience of complex project management to the team, and an ability to focus on what can be achieved in challenging situations.
I’m very encouraged that our project is gaining real traction and delighted to have the financial support for start-up from Sustrans Artroots and Ayrshire College Foundation. One of my roles is writing bids for funding and so far we have had some great support from local and national funders. Our collaboration with the college students is adding a whole new level of enthusiasm and energy, and things are really starting to move.
The active travel route which now follows the track-bed of the old Maidens and Dunure Light Railway is already well used, and I’m sure that this mural will bring a substantial increase the numbers of walkers, cyclists and horse-riders enjoying this path; Ayrshire folk and visitors from much further afield.
