From Robinwood Art School to Arran Art Gallery: Nick Giles' Creative Journey

Nick and I, in the wonderful Arran Art Gallery, Whiting Bay

A Trip to Arran—and a Catch-Up with an Old Friend

I was over on the beautiful Isle of Arran recently doing some teaching (always a pleasure), and while I was there, I got the chance to catch up with an old friend and former student—Nick Giles. It's been a long time since we first met at Robinwood Art School, and seeing what he’s gone on to achieve was really special. I thought I’d share a little about his creative journey—from those early studio days to running a thriving gallery of his own.

From Robinwood Art School to Arran Art Gallery: Nick Giles' Creative Journey

It’s been 22 years (how?!) since a young Nick Giles first joined my art school. Back then, he was a keen and curious student with a real spark. I remember his enthusiasm clearly—he threw himself into everything we did, from painting and sculpture to eventually discovering a deep love for working with glass.

Incredibly, just two years into his time with us, Nick opened Arran Art Gallery. That kind of initiative and drive at such a young stage in his creative journey was impressive, and he didn’t stop there. He continued to study with me for another three years, balancing learning and running a gallery—no small feat!

Building a Creative Hub: Arran Art Gallery

From the start, Nick’s vision for the gallery was clear. He wanted to create a vibrant, welcoming space to showcase both his own glasswork and the work of other local artists. Over the years, it’s grown into just that—a real creative hub on the island.

Nick’s own work remains central to the gallery. His glass pieces are beautifully crafted and often inspired by nature, but he still enjoys returning to canvas too—his paintings have a real sense of energy and place. That mix of media keeps his creativity fresh and evolving, and it’s lovely to see both sides of his practice continuing to thrive.

A Life Between Two Worlds

In more recent years, Nick has spent time living and working in Australia as well. That connection to both Arran and Australia comes through beautifully in his work—there’s a lovely blend of influences, light, and landscape. His creativity has continued to grow, shaped by two very different, very inspiring environments.

20 Years of Arran Art Gallery

This year marks 20 years since Arran Art Gallery opened its doors. What an amazing achievement! It felt especially fitting to be back on the island teaching, and to be able to celebrate this milestone with Nick in person. I’m so proud of everything he’s built and the way he’s kept his passion for making—and for sharing art—so alive.

Well Done, Nick

Nick, if you’re reading this—huge congratulations! Your story is one of commitment, creativity, and generosity. It’s wonderful to see the impact you’ve made, not just through your own work, but by creating space for others to shine too.

It’s moments like these that remind me why I love teaching so much. Watching people grow into their creativity, and then carry that spark out into the world—it never gets old.

Here’s to many more years of art, adventure, and inspiration.

Find our more about Nick and Arran Art Gallery here.

Here we are in front of the first painting Nick ever painted!