AN AWARD-winning Northern Irish artist gave a fascinating insight into his work at a special event in Troon earlier this month.

More than 70 local artists and art enthusiasts joined a live art event hosted in the beautiful surroundings of five-star Lochgreen House Hotel for an art demonstration with renowned

artist Gareth Reid - winner of the Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year 2017.

The audience had a chance to see how Gareth approaches his subject and interact with the live demonstration - asking questions and sharing their own experiences. The subject of the painting was a young Costley Chef, 19-year-old Callum Gilmour from Barassie.

Callum has worked in the kitchen at Lochgreen for two years and is one of their most talented up-and-coming chefs. The demonstration was followed by a delightful lunch, where guests could relax and chat with Gareth. This was the 12th art demonstration, held in the hotel over the past five years, and has proved to be a runaway success.

Modest Gareth said: "Coming so far in the competition was a complete surprise to me, and one that I never expected!”

The hotel itself is home to a fascinating art collection, which reflects the ambience of this former country home. Lochgreen was bought by Bill Costley in 1991 and has a rich heritage. It is now an award-winning hotel with newly-opened Spa suites.

Born in Belfast, Gareth studied at University of Ulster, Glasgow School of Art and Florence Academy of Art, and now lives and works in Glasgow.

The Sky Arts competition to find the overall best Portrait Artist, attracted more than five million viewers on Sky TV.

The final portrait by Gareth was a captivating portrait of broadcaster and writer Graham Norton .who it turns out, was a distant relative)! It is now on display at the National Gallery of Ireland, in Dublin.

The next Art demonstration/ Lunch coming to Lochgreen is with artist Michael Clark PAI RSW on Thursday, October 26.