May Byrne

My studio is based at the picturesque Harbourside in Irvine, situated in an almost hidden courtyard setting next to the Harbour Arts Centre and The Ship Inn. There are a variety of other artists working in the courtyard studios with most studios open on a daily basis.

I work as a professional landscape artist and tutor and have received many awards and accolades for my work, which are held in a number of private and public collections throughout the world.

I am particularly inspired by my journeys through the Highlands and Islands and in particular, my intimate connections with the Uists in the Outer Hebrides. With my family history intrinsically entwined with that of South Uist, my art is an evocation and interpretation of the Gaelic rhythms of my native island. Generations on both sides have been shaped by island life, as well as making their own mark on the character of South Uist. Subsequently, many years spent visiting have only served to further strengthen these strong bonds. An unconscious absorption of the history, culture and environment of the chain of islands that make up the Outer Hebrides has proved integral to my art. A subsequent lifelong fascination with the crofting lifestyle, the environment and its resilient people, allied to my instinctive awareness, appreciation and understanding of the Hebridean landscape, has shaped my very distinctive artistic voice.