emma s davis
scottish landscape artist
about me
The Early Years
I've been immersed in the world of drawing and painting for as long as I can remember. Inspired by my parents, themselves artists, my daily companion was a sketchbook, and I wouldn't go anywhere without it.
My childhood visits to major galleries and museums left me in awe of the art world. Throughout my school years, my sole ambition was to attend the Glasgow School of Art, study drawing and painting, and have the privilege of working in the MacIntosh studios. In 1994, that dream became a reality when I was accepted into the GSA and I graduated in 1998, culminating in a sell-out degree show.
Prized Artwork
The success of my degree show sparked a lot of interest, and I soon had commitments from many galleries throughout the UK.
In 2000, I was awarded The Alexander Graham Munro Travel Award at the RSW Annual Exhibition, which allowed me to travel to San Gimignano in Tuscany, Italy and I drew much inspiration from visits to Florence, Siena, Pisa and Lucca.
Soon after in 2001, I was honoured with the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour (RSW) diploma, and my certificate from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II hung proudly in my Gran’s living room for many years!
In 2009, I was proud to receive the Paisley Art Institute (PAI) diploma to add to my RSW diploma.
Other prizes over the years are The House for an Art Lover Award, Sir William Gilles Award, Miller’s Creativity Award, The Glasgow Art Club Award and most recently in 2020, The British Contemporary Artist Award.
Family Life
Somehow, I managed to squeeze in a marriage to Alan in 2005, then the births of our daughters Emily in 2006 and Libby in 2013. I obviously also have to mention our dogs past and present - Connie, Lewis, Bella and Beau. I could, but won’t, name all the chickens!
Alan and I shared our workspaces for many years - my art studio and his picture framing workshop. We also had an art gallery at the premises, and held many successful art exhibitions and events there. I now have a studio at home.
Royal Recognition
Adding to the RSW diploma received from Her Majesty The Queen in 2001, I had the pleasure in 2009 to receive an invitation to afternoon tea at The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, and was honoured to meet His Majesty King Charles III (then Prince Charles) and Queen Camilla (then The Duchess of Cornwall). Here are Alan and I sharing a little joke with The King. That’s one for the grandchildren!
Fabrics & Prints
My other love for art is in textile design and I’ve been scratching that itch recently also.
I have produced fabrics from my artwork for a fashion designer in Montreal, and undertook a project to produce luxury cushions featuring Harris Tweed and designed fabric to reupholster vintage furniture.
Most recently, I introduced a collection of printed products of my artwork, which are available from this website as well as other outlets throughout the UK.
Full Circle
And here I am today, sketchbook on my lap, sitting on Camusdarach beach, Arisaig, looking out towards Rum, Eigg, and Muck. The beautiful Scottish landscape still captivates me, and I can't help but feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude for calling this country home.
It’s been an enjoyable journey from a child with a dream to an artist who’s had the privilege of bringing the Scottish landscape to life on canvas. A journey that has taken me through the famous corridors of The Glasgow School of Art, the MacIntosh studios and countless galleries and exhibitions. I look forward to the journey ahead.
Thank you!
Thank you to those who have supported me over the years, it has been a bit of a rollercoaster at times!
I hope you've enjoyed glimpsing into my artistic journey. I will add a blog to the website to update on my adventures and upcoming exhibitions etc.
Thank you for being a part of this story - Emma x