An exhibition of work from an artist with a passion for promoting Moray will go on display in the region this week.
David Paterson boasts more than 30 years experience of channelling his enthusiasm for his native land on to canvas.
During that time, he has crafted detailed landscapes of the region as well as creating still life images inspired by his surroundings.
Now, work from his archives, which have been meticulously built up over three decades, will be highlighted in Elgin Library – even though the artist is far from finished doing his bit for Moray.
Mr Paterson said: “Scotland has got a world-wide reputation for being so beautiful. I want to do everything I can to promote the area.
“I’ve been looking at distilleries recently. I’ve taken photos of Glen Grant distillery in Rothes, the gardens there are just beautiful.
“I’ve still got a few things to do, but I want to do some drawings. I am very passionate about where I am from.”
As part of the exhibition, Mr Paterson will showcase 23 original paintings, in addition to ten prints from other artists. Despite having no formal art training, the painter was inspired to take up the craft after borrowing his sister’s watercolours.
After being born and raised in the town, two exhibits, chosen by the artist, will feature a romantic image from Elgin’s high street.
The legendary Two Red Shoes dance hall, which once played host to The Beatles, inspired two of the paintings, including a couple walking through the town centre, prior to partying the night away at the venue.
Mr Paterson added: “It’s a nostalgic look at the high street, just about what it was like to take a girlfriend out for the first time, out to a few bars and then heading to the Two Red Shoes. It has all changed a bit now, though.”
The exhibition in the gallery at the library will run from Saturday, October 8 until Friday, October 21 during normal library opening hours.
