13 May 2004

Family portraits with a twist

Simon Reekie's portraits are sure to raise a few eyebrows at the 2004 Dundee Degree Show, not least his father's - the subject of one of his major works. The 29-year old fine art student of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design will unveil oil paintings of his mother, father, aunt and self-portraits as the culmination of his final year's work.

Simon, from Dundee and already offered a place at the New York Academy of Art was a molecular biologist before following his passion for art but his science background is evident throughout his work. Scrutinising the face in a methodical way, the portraits highlight details more commonly captured by a microscope, such as the depth of his facial pores and the odd stray hair and the ripple like texture of his mother's skin.

His father, already treated to a sneak preview of his portrait was amazed to see his nose heavily protruding out from the rest of the painting. Simon is still waiting in anticipation for his mother and aunt to view their portraits for the first time at a special preview of the show on Friday 21 May.

An aspect of ludicrousness prevails throughout Simon's collection with his illusionary 3D effects leaving visitors bemused as to whether or not the paintings are actually what they seem.

Simon, winner of a 2004 RSA (Royal Scottish Academy) award has decided to spend a final year in Dundee before jetting across the Atlantic.

For further information please contact the Press Office on 01382 344768.

By Angela Durcan, Press Officer 01382 344768, out of hours: 07968298585, a.durcan@dundee.ac.uk