A Brief Introduction w/Artist Niall Cambell Strachan

What are your emotions when creating your work?

I’m always trying to channel different energies when I am creating an artwork, either positive or negative things happening in my life and direct these emotions into the work.

I generally don’t get very frustrated when i work, I just love painting so much; I find the simple act of physically applying paint to a surface very joyous! 

Anything is possible as soon as you fully commit to making something and in the process of creating.I tend to continually surprise myself and this emotion is what will keep bringing you back to the studio day after day, month after month. 

I think this comes across in my artworks. I want there to be an over-riding sense of joy in the work, even when there is maybe darker thoughts and themes being embedded within the work.  

Do your surroundings affect the work being created?

For me, so much is coming from inside or maybe connecting to the ether that I don’t necessarily think of my surroundings or let it affect the work too much. Give me a wall, a floor, a studio and I’ll be content.

My studio is in a small village in the Scottish Highlands with beautiful scenery but for me these landscapes have been painted to death so as much as I enjoy exploring those landscapes in real life they don’t seep into my practice.  

When did you notice your passion for the arts?

From about 3 years of age I think. I’m an only child and would always draw and explore my imagination without any siblings distracting me ha ha. Without any guidance, I clearly remember trying to draw all the Disney characters I could get my eyes on. Eventually, this led to making birthday cards for friends and being like 7 and declaring myself as an artist.

Do you have a preferred color palette, if so, what draws you to these specific colors ( if known) 

It’s always evolving as I continue to create art, but if you take a look at this recent artwork this is the easiest way to view my current palette!!