Jemma Derbyshire

Artist Statement

Jemma Derbyshire’s work is driven by a deep fascination — perhaps even an obsession — with colour. Her paintings capture the vibrancy found in the abundance of a summer garden or the soft, fleeting light of a winter landscape.

While her process often begins with drawings from observation, each piece evolves into something more introspective — an exploration of memory and experience rather than simple representation. Like memories themselves, elements within the work shift and change; some fade quietly, while others persist, returning with greater resonance over time. It is these recurring impressions — the moments that linger — that Derbyshire seeks to capture on canvas.

Biography

Based in Scotland, Jemma Derbyshire studied Drawing and Painting at Edinburgh College of Art, graduating with a BA (Hons) in 2008. She also completed a Foundation Course in Fine Art and Design at Leith School of Art, where she later taught from 2011 to 2016.

Since 2013, she has been Co-Director of Paintbox School of Art, where she continues to nurture creative practice and support emerging artists.

Derbyshire’s work has been exhibited widely across Scotland and the UK, with solo shows at Tighnabruaich Gallery, Dr Neil’s Garden, and The Red Barn Gallery, among others. Her paintings regularly feature in selected group exhibitions at leading venues including the RSA, RSW, Billcliffe Gallery, The Whitehouse Gallery, and Atelier Gallery.

Her work is held in several private and corporate collections, including Barclays Bank HQ, Edinburgh, Eskmills, Musselburgh, and Makin-Graham, Leicester and Anglesey.