A major exhibition celebrating the extraordinary life and work of artist Ally Thompson has opened at the Lillie Art Gallery in Milngavie.
Ally was one of the golden generation of figurative painters associated with the ‘New Glasgow Boys’ who studied at the School of Art.
Dubbed 'the Glaswegian Surrealist', Ally (pictured, top and below) was an incredible artist whose work was acclaimed as vibrant, challenging and moving.
Milngavie, where Ally lived, was an inspiration and he was well known locally.
The exhibition - 'Ally Thompson – A Life in Paint' - is being held from 12 January-21 February at the Lillie Art Gallery, curated by his brother, Douglas Thompson.
There are around 75 paintings, drawings and collages on show, along with sketchbooks, photographs and commentary.
During a turbulent life, Ally spent time working in the south of France, painting many extraordinary images, and he remains renowned in Europe, where his work is held in a number of private collections and galleries. His work was also exhibited in New York.
He died on 31 January 2016, aged 60.
Councillor Susan Murray, Vice Convener of East Dunbartonshire Council's Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee, said, "This is a fascinating retrospective of a unique artist and restless spirit who believed in the beauty and mystery of nature - as well as the unquenchable power of humanity and art itself."
Sandy Marshall, Chair of EDLC Trust, said, "This major exhibition celebrates a highly-respected artist who drew inspiration
from Milngavie and created an incredible range of work. I would encourage as many people as possible to go along and see his art for themselves."
Ally was a Scottish painter of the 'New Glasgow Boys' generation alongside Peter Howson, Ken Currie, Adrian Wisnieski and Steven Campbell. Indeed, Howson once described his friend as "a visionary in the mould of William Blake".
Visit www.glasgowsurrealist.com for more information on Ally and to see some of his stunning work. You can also visit https://douglasthompson.wordpress.com/ally-thompson
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