Early work

Whilst undertaking his degree in Art and Design in the mid 1960's, Douglas focused on large-format still life work, often with challenging perspectives and colours as was encouraged by Art Colleges at the time. These pieces were often still life compositions or small-room scenes of his young family at home in Broughty-Ferry and Dumbarton. After moving to Crieff, work as a teacher allowed long summer caravanning holidays to Europe with the family. He usually brought sketch pads, paper, pencils and pens which he used to create a small number of line drawings of small landscapes and architecture. You can see some of these images on the website https://douglasmatheson.co.uk/

Douglas retired from Art and Design Education in 2000. At this time he felt the time was right to change focus from helping others with their education and work - to focusing on his own, a passion which didn't receive the attention he'd like in his working years. His involvement with the Scottish Arts scene and the Arts & Crafts of other artists influenced his own artistic expression. His love of art, design, craft, architecture, travel and gallery visits broadened and deepened this artistic purpose.

It took a lot of persuasion and encouragement from those close to him to influence Douglas to rediscover a belief in his own work again. He eventually rediscovered his belief and we are so lucky to enjoy the results of his labours!

The early work was variable in style, subject and scale as he found a path he was happy with. His need and want for deep relationships with people and places moulded his life and work. The environment and how humanity adapts it moulded his subjects. Style developed as his confidence grew and his artistic niche developed. Brushstrokes grew looser as subject-matter became clearer and firmer.