A celebration of the life of one of Kirkcudbright’s greatest artists is
under way.
John Halliday passed away in November, 2021, just two doors down from where he had been born in Atkinson Place in 1933.
The town’s Harbour Cottage Gallery is holding a celebration of his life and art called Child of the Colony.
And, with a number of pieces already sold, it’s likely to be the last chance many people will get to see some of John’s work.
It was Cecile Walton – daughter of the celebrated E.A Walton – who influenced and encouraged a young John Halliday which led him to begin Glasgow School of Art in 1949.
What followed was a love for adventure, including travelling abroad and associating with some of the leading cultural lights of his generation, with his deep passion for the arts remaining constant in every step of his journey.
John lived in various parts of Scotland but Galloway eventually pulled him back.
His love affair with the region was evident over his long career through his many paintings of the Dee, Corsock and Glenton.
The exhibition is a chance to gather and display the last remaining collection of John’s available paintings including landscapes of Galloway and surrounding Scotland as well as his much loved Sicily and Italy.
There will also be some of his instantly recognizable portraits and figurative works, examples of mural work, sketches and some pieces he was still to complete.
The exhibition will also include some artefacts and items from the artist’s studio.
All work in the exhibition will be for sale with proceeds of sales going to selected charities which were close to the artist’s heart.
Anyone who knows David should get in touch with Ian Steele on 01557 331839 or i_steele@btconnect.com.
The exhibition will run until April 2.
