A FORMER firefighter is turning up the heat in the art world after swapping a 30-year career with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service for a new creative venture.
Gus Paton, originally from Greenock, moved to Kirn earlier this year and is preparing to take part in his first Cowal Open Studios weekend this September.
Mr Paton joined the Cowal Arts Network, which organises the annual event, as a way to meet people in his new community.
He works in oils, charcoal and pencil, creating detailed portraits of well-known figures including Thomas Shelby from Peaky Blinders, comedy duo Laurel and Hardy and TV naturalist David Attenborough.
He said he paints subjects that evoke emotions and enjoys working within his own creative parameters.
More than 60 Cowal Arts Network members will open their studios to the public during this year's Cowal Open Studios weekend.
He said he was looking forward to putting up the bunting and seeing how visitors responded to his work, despite going into the event without any expectations.
His first oil painting was created in 2000 as a commission for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
The painting was well received and encouraged him to continue working with the medium.
Mr Paton had enjoyed artistic drawing at school and said the experience allowed him to rediscover his passion for art alongside his career in the fire service.
He now favours oils because of their versatility and depth.
He describes himself as 'effectively self-taught' and continues to develop his skills with each new piece.
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Gus said: “I paint what moves me and work within my own parameters. I love the process of painting and drawing and often choose subjects, such as characters from popular culture, that evoke emotions.
“It's inspiring to see so many artists and makers calling this place home.
"I work with oils, charcoal and pencils and enjoy my craft.
“After three decades doing a high-pressure job, this is a way for me to be creative on my own terms.
“I'm going into this year's COS weekend with no expectations but I'm looking forward to putting up the bunting and seeing how people react to my artworks.
“Oils provide the greatest variety of visual and textural effects and the richest colour of any single medium in my view.”
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