About Neil Smith

I graduated as a Graphic Designer in 1990 and from an early age drawing and painting have been a source of immense pleasure and escapism. With a keen interest in creative comic strip writing and illustration, The Beano, The Broons, Oor Wullie and fantasy publications such as 2000AD were sources of great inspiration as a young boy. Imagine my delight at being commissioned to create the cover for the 2001 and 2003 edition of The Beano. In my opinion, art should be inclusive and fun - elements I ensure are foremost at both my private and local council run art classes. I firmly believe that art can be a means of social interaction, delight and enjoyment for all - regardless of age, ability, wealth or health. Alongside my classes I undertake more elaborate commission work, bringing a sense of texture and illumination to my work, while still maintaining that vibrancy and enthusiasm that those early comic strips evoked. This work is currently on show in various galleries around Scotland or in private collections. I have worked frequently 'en plein aire' both at home or in Cornwall, whose rugged coastline is another source of inspiration, both man and boy. You can also often find me at corporate events, social occasions or on a commission basis at fairs indulging in my first love - creating comic strips and caricatures. This is very much a face to face situation with the added bonus of meeting and interacting directly with anyone who shares my delight in Art.