Artist Highlight : Paddy Mcdougall
Paddy Mcdougall, Photographer
A Glimpse into the Artist's World
To capture the essence of each artist's unique journey, we delve deeper into their creative process and invite them to share their insights. Through a thoughtfully crafted questionnaire, we unravel the mysteries behind their artistic brilliance.
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Please tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m a Scottish artist, proud Dad, loves music, art, the sea and films. Not in that particular order. A bit random and awkward but almost always have good intentions. Not very good with words, prefer photography.What mediums do you use to express yourself?
I used to paint and draw when I was younger. I was the kid / teenager happy in a corner drawing and painting whilst everyone else was out doing things. Photography is my main medium now however painting, drawing, and graphics all inform my work. Started AI however very much a work in progress.What inspires you?
Lots of things inspire me; travel, landscapes, colors shapes, artwork, music, and people. I am always ‘scanning’ sometimes with purpose other times unconsciously. Not always a wow factor, sometimes something can be cool or just interesting to be inspirational.Are you a Solo or Collaborative artist?
Predominantly a solo artist however happy to explore things collaboratively. In everyday life, I am quite relaxed however when producing work I need to feel a degree of control in the final output. I have clear views of what I like and what I want to put my name too. I need mutual trust rapport and respect when working with other artists. That’s not always easy using a digital communication medium.
How do you/your perception of art differ from others?
Not sure. Good question. Some people can be very rigid in their views. I prefer to have a more open interpretation of art. If it has a creative process and evokes emotions in people then I think it could be classed as art. Whether it is good or not is down to individual interpretation. I am all for more people being creative and not worrying about what people will say. Been there done that it isn’t healthy whereas if someone enjoys the process go for it.Is there a fav artist or an artwork that inspired you/your style?
Loads. Too many to mention. Mark Rothko, Dali, Picasso, Franz Kline.
Since joining the NFT space I am inspired more and more by contemporary photographers in this space; Billy Dee, Philip Pullman, Deckle Edge, Martin Parr, Umagumag, Yavuz Sarıyıldiz are just a few.What was the last Exhibition you visited?
An exhibition of stencils from 1998-2023, ‘Banksy: Cut and Run’ in Glasgow.What does Innovation mean to you?
Innovation for me is about refinement, utilizing different techniques/process and mediums. Whatever the medium if you don’t innovate you could run the risk of becoming a parody of yourself. It’s exciting and for me gives me the energy to create more. Just as bands have a difficult second album second collections can go either way!Are you familiar with Web3 /NFTs/Crypto?
I minted my first NFTs in Nov 2021. It has been a massive learning curve and very grateful to the NFT community for all their support. Not just the technical part, I have been exposed to so much amazing art, and has challenged and inspired me to produce better work.Is AI your Enemy or Friend?
AI is here to stay. For those who see it as an enemy, they are going to lose out. I have seen some amazing work produced. Str4nge and Pop in particular have used it to great effect. My only problem with it is when people don’t declare photorealistic work as such. Photography will survive however it will need to evolve.Please tell us a bit about a recent piece of the art world that has particularly interested you.
Agnes Dene, Robert Morris, Chris Jordan, Edith Meusnier, and Tan Zi Xi, all produce art in the name of climate activism. We need more of this. We are destroying the earth. I have a son and I want him to live in a world that isn’t poisoned by greed and consumerism. Art is a powerful tool to raise awareness.
” Art is good for the soul. There is no right or wrong way to live or create (as long as you aren’t intentionally hurting someone). Be bold, be brave, be kind. Make mistakes but don’t beat yourself up about it. Don’t compare yourself to others just be you. You are good enough. Laugh love and find purpose in what you do ”
Paddy Mcdougall's ability to capture a sense of stillness and calmness through his lens reveals a deep understanding of the power of photography as a means of meditative expression. The artist's work conveys minimalism, effectively transporting viewers to a world of tranquility and contemplation. His work stands as a testament to the profound power of photography as a means of artistic expression and introspection.
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