Turning a passion into a business, how Sandra Vick Art followed her dream
Local Penicuik artist, Sandra Vick Art has been creating artwork for nearly 25 years, focusing on the local birds and wildlife that call Midlothian’s diverse habitats home.
After a decade working in health economics, Sandra was inspired to retrain as an artist and follow her dreams. Starting with evening classes, progressing to Leith School of Art and then Edinburgh College of Art culminating in a postgraduate Masters in Fine Art, Sandra’s passion was truly realised!
Midlothian’s wildlife
After noting that many around her didn’t notice the incredible birdlife calling Midlothian home, Sandra set out to capture them and create unique paintings showcasing the diverse range of wildlife in the area. Working from her home studio, Sandra captures not only the birds landing in her own garden but those in the Pentlands, reservoirs and woodlands that give Midlothian it’s spectacular landscapes and natural habitats.
Diversifying business
As Sandra Vick Art began to make a name for herself and her art, it was increasingly clear that many people couldn’t afford a traditional painting or artwork. Sandra Vick Ltd began with 4 mugs with 4 of her paintings printed on them. This helped her to engage with a new audience and bring affordable art to all.
The popularity of these mugs, and further investment into other homeware and gift items featuring her work, have led to Sandra’s business continually experiencing growth and new product lines. Sandra now also creates atmospheric landscape paintings to complement her beautiful bird artworks.
Award winning artwork
2023 marks an important year for Sandra’s artwork with 2 paintings being accepted into the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year Awards in London and her work also being displayed at The Big Art Show in Paisley.
Sandra Vick Art lessons
Sandra Vick Ltd also runs a range of art classes for children and young people which take place throughout the year. With an aim to inspire the next generation of artists, Sandra encourages those with a creative spark to explore their artistic side, gain confidence and experience of different mediums and, most importantly, have fun!
Classes run regularly in Penicuik Cricket Club and Penicuik Community Arts Association.
Stockists of Sandra Vick Art
Along with her online shop, Sandra’s paintings, mugs and designs can be found in shops from Orkney to Devon, including in her hometown of Penicuik at Penicuik Storehouse. Be sure to look out for the striking bird designs on your next shopping trip!
Find out more about Sandra Vick on her website>>
Turn your passion into your own business
If you have an interest or hobby, you too can turn it into your own business and generate income from it like Sandra has. Business Gateway Midlothian are on hand to support you as you develop your idea, start up your business, and are there every step of the way as you grow.
Find out more and get in touch with Business Gateway Midlothian>>
