John Cairns, born in Glasgow, Scotland.

In the last five years and thanks largely to the influence of the internet there has been a revolution in the attitude towards original art. It is now no longer regarded as the exclusive domain of the wealthy. Today a piece of original art in the house is now becoming as common place as the plasma screen TV or personal computer.

I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to own a single piece of artwork to enjoy and show what may very possibly become a sound investment and an appreciating asset.

I will never forget a chance meeting with one of my tutors and also gifted painter (W.R. Witham) whom exclaimed aghast at my poor choice of career and waste of my talent. "Although you may not pick up a brush again, you will never stop painting in your mind." How true were those words, and although I was successful in my then chosen career, I have now returned to the easel and the love I should never have left.