A Moray schoolteacher has opened a new art exhibition, inspired by the wishes of children.
Aileen Neillie’s collection of paintings focus on dandelion seeds that have been blown in the wind.
Despite the gallery’s title of “Gone to Seed”, the principal teacher of art at Milne’s High School believes it is an uplifting subject.
Instead of plants withering in the wind, Mrs Neillie has depicted seeds from flowers which are giving new life as well as “hope and respect”.
She said: “I was fascinated with the idea of using dandelions to represent generations of children who have blown seed heads to tell the time or make a wish.
“I find the latter the most intriguing – it almost verges on superstition or folk lore. I’m moved by the innocent naivety that this simple act will make wishes come true.
“In reality, this act assists the dandelion’s very effective method of seed dispersal – encouraging future growth and ensuring its long-term survival.”
The Milne’s teacher started working in secondary schools 12 years ago, but has always made time to continue her own art practice.
Her latest collection, which has gone on display at Elgin Museum, magnifies the seeds to uncover the intricate detail that can only be seen under a powerful lens.
She added: “Initially, I work from the source in a very analytical way, investigating and understanding the visual elements before developing my ideas.
“Generally, I begin to explore several possibilities through zooming into a particular area of interest.”
The gallery is open at Elgin Museum until November 4.
