'I started out as a dressmaker and bridal wear designer in Paisley. I moved to Edinburgh 15 years ago and whilst working full-time, studied for a degree in art history. I also have a HND in fashion design and manufacture, and worked as a bingo caller in my youth!

I have been drawing and painting since I was very young, but have no formal training, other than fashion drawing for design. I love painting seascapes and landscapes, as I find it relaxing.

I work at a computer most of the day, so it’s wonderful to break away from it at the end of the day to do something more creative. At the National Galleries of Scotland we have such a wide variety of art, you can’t help but feel inspired by it.

I like the variety of my job — no two days are the same. I work with a great team of curators and I’m based in what I think is the most beautiful building in Edinburgh, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.'