Allan McNally
Southwest Scotland Coastline Revealed
Galloway born artist and gallery owner, Allan McNally, is no stranger to the thrill of unveiling a new collection of paintings having exhibited his artwork both locally and internationally throughout his career. His most recent work has seen him focus his attention once again on his homeland as he prepares to launch an extraordinary exhibition this summer that promises to capture the very essence of Southwest Scotland’s magnificent coastline. He is absolutely thrilled to present a collection of watercolours and acrylics which capture his passion for this stunning region in every vibrant brushstroke.
Allan’s studio and gallery is located in the conservation village of Colmonell, in the stunning Stinchar Valley. The venue is a delightful former church that has been tastefully renovated to provide a light and airy art space which inspires and reflects his creativity. In his beautifully curated studio and gallery, Allan creates bold, vibrant contemporary paintings of Scottish landscapes, coastal scenes and seascapes.
Inspired by an art exchange to Tibet in 2006 arranged by a London gallery, he also creates travel scenes of trips in faraway destinations, including the Himalayas, the Sierra Madre Mountains in Mexico, Nepal, Latvia and the Tibetan Plateau where he lived, and gleaned inspiration, within semi nomadic communities.
A professional artist and tutor since 2006, Allan sells his art mainly through his own studio and gallery in Colmonell. Over several decades as an artist, however, he has exhibited his work in art galleries around Scotland and the wider UK, for example in Aberdeen, Glasgow and London. His paintings have also been selected for international exhibitions in the USA, Russia, India, Spain, Singapore and New Zealand. His work can be found in private and corporate collections around the world, including in the UK, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, France, Portugal and Japan: his creativity is recognised and celebrated on a global scale.
Despite his far-flung travels, however, Allan is most inspired by the rugged cliffs, sandy coves, secluded beaches, historic castles, and iconic lighthouses which grace the Southwest coastline. He credits the fresh sea air and salty breezes with invigorating his senses on many of his painting excursions, bringing life to his vision and his brush. Allan’s upcoming exhibition promises visitors an equally immersive experience – an opportunity to lose themselves in the dramatic beauty of the Ayrshire and Galloway coastline through artistry that is both profound and deeply moving.
Allan has spent countless hours exploring the many hidden coves, majestic castles, and iconic lighthouses that have become the subjects of this remarkable collection of paintings which pays tribute to the Southwest coastline. His dedication to capturing the unique character and spirit of local landscapes is truly inspiring. From the imposing grandeur of historic fortifications standing sentinel against raiders from the sea, to the charming serenity of quaint fishing villages nestled in sheltered inlets, each painting tells a story – a whispered secret of the coast and its heritage.
His latest collection promises to move and inspire visitors through the intricate details of his watercolours, where soft washes and delicate hues perfectly reflect the ever-changing light and atmospheric moods of the Scottish summer. Though in sharp contrast stylistically, the bold and dynamic energy of his acrylics, which bring to life the raw power of crashing waves and the vibrant tapestry of coastal flora, are equally sure to captivate exhibitiongoers.
This isn’t just an art exhibition, it’s an invitation to experience the heart and soul of the Southwest coast through the eyes of an artist who truly understands its magic. Whether you have a deep personal connection to this beautiful region or simply yearn for an escape to its wild and untamed beauty, Allan’s work will undoubtedly resonate deeply.
Allan’s passion for art, and his love of the coastline, comes through in his own words:
“I enjoy exploring the versatility of watercolours and the boldness of acrylic. I find them refreshing mediums through which I can capture the everchanging moods of the Southwest Scotland coastline. I gain inspiration for my work from remote coastlines with views of the sky meeting the sea, fishing villages, lighthouses and nature, savouring the challenge of finding unusual subjects to paint in unexpected places. I love coming across a forgotten derelict cottage, an old boat, beach reflections or a glimpse of a distant island appearing through the mist. It always surprises me the sheer number of painting subjects that are created by nature, the sea, the coastline, and the often-hidden signs of those who live on our remote coastlines.”
Allan warmly invites you to visit his studio and gallery, where you can wander, reflect and enjoy his stunning works of art at your leisure this summer.
Allan’s studio and gallery is open at weekends from 11am – 4pm and during the week by appointment. To find out more visit www.allanmcnally.fineart.co.uk
