Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath

David McClure

Name Class Date
David McClure, Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath, The National Trust For Scotland. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
David McClure originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/david-mcclure/
Artist’s dates
1926 – 1998
Medium
Oil On Canvas
Original size
39 x 49 cm
Movement
Colourist Style
Held at
The National Trust For Scotland originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/the-national-trust-for-scotland-maybole/
Artistic style
Influenced by Matisse & Gauguin
Influences
Anne Redpath, William Gillies
Notable elements or techniques
Bright colours, textured brushstrokes
Subject or theme
Coastal landscape

Copyright This work is still under copyright. David McClure died in 1998; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it remains in force until 2068. The image is shown here for classroom reference; rights remain with the rights holder.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath — David McClure Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath — David McClure

How big is it?

The original measures 39 × 49 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When might this have been painted?

  1. 1920
  2. 1930
  3. 1940
  4. 1950
  5. 1960
  6. 1970
  7. 1980
  8. 1990

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 72 at death.

Shaded: the lifetime of David McClure (1926–1998) every dated painting, decade by decade

This record has no exact year on file — using the artist's lifetime and the work's style, what decade would you guess?

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/david-mcclure-salmon-bothy-dunbeath-AQSL33-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Gray #9f8d7d

    Catalogued palette

    • #9F8D7D
    • #2F3531
    • #C7BAB0
    • #5D5A54

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Earthy The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Gray
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Statement How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Discordant Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Bright How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Subtle Color How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by David McClure over the last twelve months — 1 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 100.0%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 3 most looked-at works by David McClure

    1. 1 Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath this painting 33.3%
    2. 2 Still Life with Japanese Print 33.3%
    3. 3 Boats at St Paul's Bay, Malta 33.3%

    Together these works take 99.9% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 19 works by this artist, of which 3 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 1 of them, with 33.3% of that attention. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath — David McClure Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath — David McClure

    Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath: A Window into Scottish Landscape and Colour

    David McClure’s “Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath” is more than just a depiction of a coastal scene; it's an embodiment of the Colourist movement’s fascination with capturing the essence of light and atmosphere. Painted in 1974 by the Scottish artist David McClure (1926–1998), this artwork resides within the impressive collection of National Trust for Scotland at Culzean Castle, Garden & Country Park—a testament to its enduring beauty and artistic merit. The painting portrays a tranquil beach bathed in golden sunlight, dominated by a modest stone bothy – a traditional Scottish fisherman’s hut – nestled amongst mature trees.

    Style and Technique: Embracing the Colourist Vision

    McClure's approach aligns perfectly with the tenets of Colourism, spearheaded by artists like Matisse and Gauguin. He eschewed meticulous realism in favor of bold brushstrokes and vibrant hues that prioritize emotional resonance over photographic accuracy. The artist skillfully employs thick impasto – applying paint thickly onto the canvas – creating a palpable textural surface that mimics the ruggedness of the coastline and the solidity of the building material. McClure’s palette is dominated by warm yellows, oranges, and reds, reflecting the radiant glow of the sun on the water and foliage. These colours aren't merely decorative; they convey a sense of warmth, stability, and connection to the natural world—values central to Scottish identity.

    Historical Context: Echoes of Impressionism

    McClure’s artistic journey began in Glasgow University where he studied English and History alongside Fine Art. Influenced by luminaries like Anne Redpath, William Gillies, John Maxwell, and Robert Henderson Blyth, he honed his skills at Edinburgh College of Art before embarking on a prolific international exploration fueled by scholarships and fellowships. The painting’s creation coincided with the burgeoning Colourist movement in Britain—a reaction against the academic conventions of Impressionism that sought to capture fleeting moments of visual experience. Artists like McClure were driven by a desire to express emotion and feeling through colour, mirroring the broader cultural shift towards valuing subjective perception.

    Symbolism: The Bothy as Emblematic Representation

    The humble bothy itself holds significant symbolic weight within Scottish culture. Representing resilience, practicality, and connection to tradition, it symbolizes the enduring spirit of rural Scotland—a place deeply rooted in fishing communities and reliant on the rhythms of nature. Its positioning amidst the trees reinforces this theme, suggesting harmony between humanity and landscape. Furthermore, the boats scattered along the shore speak to the livelihood of those who inhabit Dunbeath and underscore the importance of maritime heritage.

    Emotional Impact: A Moment Frozen in Time

    “Salmon Bothy” succeeds in transporting viewers back to a specific place and time—a serene coastal scene imbued with warmth and tranquility. The painting evokes feelings of nostalgia for simpler times, celebrating the beauty of Scotland’s natural environment and capturing a fleeting glimpse of sunlight filtering through the trees. It's an artwork that invites contemplation and appreciation for McClure’s masterful ability to translate visual sensation into emotionally evocative imagery—a timeless piece destined to inspire generations of art lovers.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath — David McClure Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    David McClure

    Born in Lochwinnoch, United Kingdom

    Early Life and Education

    Born: February 20, 1926, Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire, United Kingdom

    Died: February 20, 1998 (aged 72)

    Nationality: Scottish

    Attended Queen's Park School in Glasgow.

    Served as a Bevin Boy in the mines of West Lothian during World War II; early works depict mining scenes and portraits.

    Studied English and History at Glasgow University before focusing on Fine Art.

    Studied at Edinburgh College of Art (1947-52), influenced by Anne Redpath, William Gillies, John Maxwell, and Robert Henderson Blyth.

    Awarded a travelling scholarship in 1952-3 and an Andrew Grant Fellowship in 1955-7, leading to periods working in Spain, Italy, Sicily, and Norway.

    Artistic Style and Development

    Early work influenced by Surrealism and Cubism.

    Developed a rich Colourist style, often referencing French Post-Impressionists like Matisse, Gauguin, Picasso, Braque, Chagall, and Redon.

    Known for vibrant still lifes, nudes, landscapes, and family portraits.

    Style evolved over time, influenced by John Maxwell in the 1960s.

    Celebratory of good things in life and nature; informed by art history, literature, and music.

    Career and Teaching

    Taught painting at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art (1958-1985).

    Became Head of Painting at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in 1983, succeeding Alberto Morrocco.

    Reputation as an inspirational and caring teacher; known for opening the minds of students.

    Wrote a monograph on the painter John Maxwell.

    Major Achievements and Recognition

    Elected to the Royal Scottish Academy (RSA) in 1971.

    Exhibited widely in group shows in Scotland and internationally.

    Held numerous one-man exhibitions, including at the Scottish Gallery, Edinburgh, and Thackeray Gallery, London.

    Commissioned for the reconstruction of the King's Room at Falkland Palace, Fife (murals and ceiling paintings).

    Received the Guthrie Award in 1956.

    Legacy and Historical Significance

    Considered a significant figure within the Scottish Colourist tradition.

    His work reflects a deep appreciation for colour, light, and form.

    Remembered as an influential teacher who fostered creativity in his students.

    Continues to be exhibited and collected by art enthusiasts and institutions.

    Museum

    The National Trust For Scotland

    On show in Maybole, United Kingdom

    A Living Narrative Etched in Stone and Landscape

    To step into the care of

    The National Trust for Scotland

    is to embark on a journey through a landscape where history is not merely recorded in books, but etched into the very stone and soil of the nation. More than a mere repository of artifacts, this institution serves as a dedicated custodian of the Scottish spirit, protecting an expansive tapestry that includes over 100 properties and 75,000 hectares of land. From the imposing silhouettes of medieval castles clinging to rugged coastlines to the serene beauty of meticulously crafted gardens nestled within rolling glens, each site offers an immersive journey through centuries of resilience and artistic expression. It is a sanctuary where the past remains a vibrant, breathing presence, safeguarding a nation’s identity against the relentless march of time.

    The architectural splendor within this portfolio is perhaps most eloquently embodied in

    Culzean Castle

    . Perched dramatically upon the cliffs overlooking the Firth of Claude, this masterpiece stands as a testament to the genius of

    Robert Adam

    . Here, classical influences blend seamlessly with innovative design, creating a residence that once rivaled the grandest estates in Europe. The symmetrical façade, crowned by towering turrets, commands the eye, while the interior reveals a world of exquisite detail. The

    Oval Staircase

    stands as a breathtaking feat of engineering and artistry, serving as the castle’s dramatic heart and leading visitors through opulent state rooms adorned with original furnishings and fine artwork. This architectural dialogue between structure and nature is further realized in the surrounding gardens, where Italianate terraces give way to wild coastal woodlands.

    A Curated Chronicle of Heritage and Artistry

    For the collector and lover of fine art, the collections held within these historic estates offer a visual chronicle of power, patronage, and the Enlightenment era. Within the walls of these grand houses, one finds a curated selection of portraits by masters such as

    Sir Joshua Reynolds

    and

    Allan Ramsay

    , capturing the very essence of Scottish nobility with profound psychological depth. The collection extends into the intimate realms of daily life, where every object tells a story of a bygone era:

    Handwoven textiles

    that whisper tales of craftsmanship and tradition.

    Intricately carved furniture

    reflecting the elegance of the landed gentry.

    Antique farming tools

    that honor the enduring connection between the people and the land.

    What truly distinguishes

    The National Trust for Scotland

    is its role as a vibrant, living force in the community. It is not a static monument to the past, but an active participant in the present through ongoing exhibitions focusing on

    Scottish Art History

    and

    Landscape Preservation

    . By fostering collaborations with local schools and organizations, the Trust ensures that the preservation of heritage is a shared responsibility. This holistic approach—combining rigorous scholarship with community engagement—transforms these historic sites into more than just destinations; they become invitations to connect with the enduring, soulful essence of Scotland.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/david-mcclure-salmon-bothy-dunbeath-AQSL33-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    McClure, David. Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath. n.d., The National Trust For Scotland. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/david-mcclure-salmon-bothy-dunbeath-AQSL33-en/
    APA
    McClure, David (n.d.). Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath [Painting]. The National Trust For Scotland. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/david-mcclure-salmon-bothy-dunbeath-AQSL33-en/
    Chicago
    David McClure. Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath. n.d. The National Trust For Scotland. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/david-mcclure-salmon-bothy-dunbeath-AQSL33-en/
    Harvard
    McClure, David (n.d.) Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath. The National Trust For Scotland. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/david-mcclure-salmon-bothy-dunbeath-AQSL33-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath — David McClure Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath — David McClure

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: scottish landscape, coastal scene, beach house. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at John Stone (1950), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Themes that come back through the work of David McClure: french impressionists, scottish tradition, rural tranquility. Which of them do you see here?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath — David McClure Part 5 · Look closely

    Questions & Answers

    How do I download the image of "Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath" by David McClure?

    The image of "Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath" by David McClure can be downloaded from the artwork's Download page: a high-resolution digital image download.

    Who sells hand-painted copies of "Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath" by David McClure?

    Hand-painted copies of "Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath" by David McClure are sold on this website: a hand-painted oil reproduction on linen canvas, ordered from its Hand-Painted Reproduction page.

    What orientation does "Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath" by David McClure have?

    The format of "Salmon Bothy, Dunbeath" is landscape. This is useful when planning where a reproduction will be placed.