Painting project

On Scotland’s western edge, the Isle of Skye is a timeless haven of windswept cliffs, dramatic landscapes, legends and enduring spirit

Alastair MacDonald Jackson spent two years visiting as many of Scotland’s west coast islands as possible. Here he showcases some of the greatest wonders of the west – and offers practical advice on how to see them

Sometimes the sky in your painting can be quite plain and isn’t meant to be a major part of the subject matter. On other occasions, however, it may be the subject itself or create drama and contrast i

I love to take a sketchbook with me when I’m out in the countryside. I can make detailed drawings, quick watercolour sketches, or add just a few brief marks with a pencil or pen to remind me of the sc

There are some places that feel larger than life. Landscapes so large, they change perspective and perception. The Assynt, in northwest Scotland, is one of those landscapes. So, too, other parts of We

‘The real subject of every painting is light.’ CLAUDE MONET WHENEVER I’M PAINTING A PIECE, I am constantly appraising each movement, blend and nuance along the way. When you break it down, the number