Jackie graduated in Contemporary Art Practice in 2014. Art has always been a large part of her life as she worked within various creative roles as a children's book illustrator, art therapist and self employed arts and crafts worker. Having lived in rural Angus on the east coast of Scotland for a good part of her life, Jackie moved to Glasgow 10 years ago to complete her degree. Whilst she loved life in the west end of the city, she missed the draw of the coast and its sea air, so relocated to East Lothian in 2020 where she now lives and works.
Jackie's work is very autobiographical and her environment is a constant source of inspiration and features heavily in her painting, translating it into quirky observations. Focusing on many different subjects, Jackie captures scenes from everyday life, concentrating on texture and form. Her still life studies are an appreciation of the moment, encouraging us to value the world we have around us and right in front of our eyes; her landscapes portray the fishing towns and rural environments that she's been part of for a large part of her life; and, her figurative pieces are observations and feelings transferred to the canvas and given space to breathe. Many of Jackie's figurative works are inspired by Glasgow Art School sisters Frances and Margaret MacDonald and their influences.
Working predominantly in acrylics, Jackie builds up layers of colour by alternating layers of paint and glaze. She then rubs back the surfaces to reveal the previous layers, so that what lies beneath is as important as what is visible on the surface. Textures are achieved by imprinting lace and delicate textiles into a gesso base and also by incorporating collage. These techniques, alongside the very muted, soft palettes that she uses mean that her works have a very calming and tranquil quality to them.
