Scottish Colourist Series; F.C.B Cadell - An introduction to Perspective. Painting Shambellie House
Workshops

Scottish Colourist Series; F.C.B Cadell – An introduction to Perspective. Painting Shambellie House

From: £150.00

Date: Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July 2026

Time: 10am – 4pm both days

Suitable for beginner or intermediate

Discover the basics of linear perspective as you paint the iconic Shambellie House inspired by Scottish Colourist F.C.B. Cadell. This beginner-friendly workshop will guide you step-by-step in creating depth, structure, and confidence in your artwork.

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Description

Join us for a two-day creative workshop exploring the basics of linear perspective and the vibrant style of Scottish Colourist F.C.B. Cadell who spent much of his time at Shambellie House.

 

Day 1 introduces simple perspective techniques to help you understand depth, structure, and the geometry of buildings.
Day 2 puts those skills into practice as you create a colourful, Cadell-inspired painting of Shambellie House, using his dynamic brushwork and bold palette as inspiration.

 

This workshop is perfect for beginners who want to build confidence, learn essential art foundations, and leave with a finished painting to be proud of. Come along to discover new techniques, enjoy a relaxed creative atmosphere, and bring Shambellie House to life through colour and perspective.

MATERIALS: An extra charge of £20 will be payable directly to the tutor.

What you will learn

 

  • The fundamentals of linear perspective, including horizon lines and vanishing points
  • How to simplify buildings into basic shapes to create accurate structure and depth
  • Techniques for sketching Shambellie House from different viewpoints
  • How to identify and apply F.C.B. Cadell’s colour palette and dynamic brushwork
  • How to build a painting from initial sketch to final layers
  • Confidence in combining perspective skills with expressive, colourful painting
  • How to produce a complete artwork inspired by both Shambellie House and Scottish Colourist techniques

 

What you will create

 

·      A series of quick perspective sketches to build confidence and accuracy

·      Thumbnail studies of Shambellie House exploring composition and viewpoint

·      A structured final drawing using linear perspective

·      A colour study inspired by F.C.B. Cadell’s bold palette

·      A finished painting of Shambellie House combining perspective with expressive colour and brushwork

 

Location & Accessibility: 

 

This workshop will take place indoors in the Gallery and outdoors in the grounds should the weather be kind.

Please note that the Gallery is located on the second floor and is only accessible via stairs.

If you have any access requirements, let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Your Tutor

Your Tutor

Ailsa Mackay

A graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, I have dedicated over 30 years to a professional career as an artist and designer. My creative journey has spanned a wide range of disciplines—from fashion and home décor to interior and stationery design—with my designs sold and licensed internationally, including in the UK, USA, Germany, and Australia. Alongside commercial work, I have consistently developed and exhibited original artworks, with paintings and prints held in private collections both across the UK and overseas.

My artistic practice is rooted in a bold, expressive style that reflects my background in design. Working primarily in acrylic, gouache, and soft pastels, I draw inspiration from the natural world and the nuances of everyday life. Each piece is a dynamic exploration of colour, texture, and form—seeking to capture moments of vitality and reflection.

Now based in Scotland after many years working in the south of England, I continue to balance creative practice with education and public engagement. As an experienced art educator, I teach foundational drawing and painting skills to learners of all levels, encouraging confidence and curiosity through accessible, skills-based learning.

I am currently acting of Chair DG Unlimited (Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of the Arts) and sit on the Artists of Shambellie House Steering Group. My commitment to the wider impact of the arts also extends into research and policy. In my role as Lead for the National Centre for Resilience—a scientific centre focused on community preparedness for natural hazards and climate change—I champion creative methods as a means of strengthening personal and collective wellbeing.

This cross-sector work has included co-authoring research on community resilience and supporting young people with additional needs.

My work has been exhibited widely throughout the UK, with recent exhibitions including Shambellie House in New Abbey. I continue to pursue opportunities for collaboration, exhibition, and engagement that sit at the intersection of art, education, and wellbeing.

Do you have any access needs?

If you have answered yes and would like to discuss your requirements then please get in touch.

Have you any dietary requirements?

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