Donald M Paterson RSW

Donald M. Paterson’s work is deeply rooted in his strong connection to northwest Scotland, and in particular, to the island of Skye. This landscape — with its shifting light, rugged forms, and emotional resonance — remains a central source of inspiration throughout his practice.

Each drawing, painting, or construction emerges from a combination of direct experiences, observations, memories, and photographs from the region. While these sources provide a foundation, the finished work often moves beyond them, seeking a personal and coherent balance rather than a literal depiction. The outcome is sometimes oblique, reflecting an intuitive and evolving process in which the final form is rarely predetermined.

Donald works primarily in water-based media, often using transparent watercolour on paper, and frequently incorporates collage elements to build texture and complexity.

In addition to the Scottish landscape, family visits to France, Sweden, and London have also provided moments of inspiration and influence within his body of work.