Artist's bio
Fiona’s scientific background is founded upon a BSc in Agriculture, an MSc in Clinical Embryology and a PhD in Veterinary Science. Her lifetime of remarkable scientific achievements and research was recognised in 2024 when she was awarded an Honorary Assistant Professorship in Reproductive Biology at Nottingham University, UK.
It was in 2006 whilst working as a research scientist in the African bush that Fiona turned her hand to art, starting with pastel pencils and charcoal (these basic artist’s tools being easy to carry about and obtain in Zimbabwe). Her unique, expressive and highly detailed drawings, based on her own photography, soon became popular and supported her PhD studies into elephant reproduction and conservation. Multiple joint and solo exhibitions in Harare, Zimbabwe followed, (as featured in an article in the Zim Artist Magazine (Spring Edition 2013).
In 2015, Fiona moved back to live in Kirkcudbright, south-west Scotland where, in addition to introducing new native species to her subject catalogue, she has also brought colour to her paintings, (coloured pastels being more readily available in Scotland than in Africa!).
Since returning to live in the UK, she has participated in several group and solo exhibitions in Dumfries & Galloway.
R.J.F.S, White Friars, Chester
Exhibitions in Scotland
Harbour Gallery, Kirkcudbright (several joint exhibitions 2017–2024)
Samphire Gallery, Castle Douglas (joint; summer 2024)
Whitehouse Gallery, Kirkcudbright (joint; December 2017 and April 2024)
The Tollbooth, Kirkcudbright (solo: March 2017)
Beyond the Line Gallery, Station House, Kirkcudbright (solo; September 2016)
Exhibitions in Zimbabwe
Willowmead, Rolf Valley, Harare (solo exhibitions; annually 2006 to 2012)
Wechi, Enterprise Road, Harare (solo; October 2011)
November Moon, Borrowdale Brooke, Harare (November 2010)
In addition to fairs (St John's College; International School; Wild Geese; Borrowdale Fair, among others), Embassy exhibitions, and gallery hangings, including Wechi, Delcado and Christopher Kaye and sales from my home studio.