A 95-year-old artist who has painted more than 50 works inspired by Glasgow in the 1930s is exhibiting them for free for one last time.
Thomas McGoran said he wanted people to “see the beautiful city of Glasgow” through his eyes growing up and added: “The paintings are free to view, and none are for sale. My only wish is for people to see my art before I die.”
The Forge Shopping Centre, in the East End, has agreed to display Thomas’s work until February 26, with donations going to children’s charity With Kids.
Thomas moved to Dennistoun in 1931, when he was just four years old. He says the city is the inspiration behind his lovely paintings, which cover everything from street games and visits to the cinema to windae-hingers and tenement life.
The artist, who retired in 1988 after a long and varied career which included three years in the Royal Air Force, is also offering interested visitors a unique opportunity to learn more about his work.
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He said: “I will be here each day from 10am until 5pm and would love to talk about the inspiration behind each painting, as well as answer any questions you might have. It’d be an honour.”
Thomas did not take up art until his retirement, when his wife Jenny gave him a gift of oil paints. With no formal training, he says he taught himself how to use the materials “by way of trial and error.”
There are 50 original paintings on show within the gallery, many of which have lain untouched in a wardrobe since Thomas created them.
Jade Wilkie, marketing manager at The Forge, said: “We didn’t hesitate to give Thomas a spot in the centre to showcase his work. His art is beautiful, and he’s such a kind, sweet gentleman. He deserves to have his paintings admired by thousands, which is why we encourage people to stop by and view them whenever they get a spare five minutes.
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“The community is everything to us and this little project ticks so many boxes. Not only are we granting a local artist a very meaningful wish, but together we’re also raising vital funds for a children’s charity. We just hope we can get support from as many people as possible until February 26.”
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