Irene studied at Gray’s School of Art, Aberdeen, graduating in design, weaving and jewellery in the early 1970’s

After qualifying as a teacher, she taught in many various schools and colleges both in England and Scotland. For the next 37 years Irene worked with a wide range of pupils, students and staff groups in a range of disciplines and abilities.

Since her retirement from teaching in 2010 she has been painting in her studio at her home in Ayr.

Irene has always had a passion for art, and is now enjoying painting, something  she said she would do later on in life. She is in love with painting especially with oils and in the midst of a love affair with our wonderful skies and Scottish landscape.

Irene was the Founder of Open Studios Ayrshire, and was chair of the membership for three years. This annual art event is now well established  in Ayrshire.

Solo exhibitions include; Glen Grant distillery Dufftown, Ian McNabe Gallery Dunblane, and various Ayrshire Hospitals. She is also an exhibiting member of Ayr Sketch Club, GSWA, and Paisley Art Institute.

She is currently one of three artists in residence at the Coach House Gallery, Culzean Castle and is enjoying this new role of working with other artists to bring a unique experience to the visitors at this prestigious National Trust for Scotland property. In the Coach House Gallery, Irene has realised one of her long held dreams of having a gallery.