Leo du Feu

Linlithgow born Leo du Feu is rapidly making a name for himself after graduating from Edinburgh College of Art.

The work of a freelance artist from West Lothian has gone on permanent display in the new UK Astronomy Technology Centre at the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh. Four 4 metre high landscapes were commissioned by the Observatory when Leo was still studying. Each depicts a view of land, sky and space, towering high above the viewer, drawing the eye upwards in the same way that an astronomer's gaze travels from land, up through the sky and into space.

Another of Leo's large canvases - a 6ft x 5ft painting - was shortlisted for the Mercury Art Prize. The prize runs in parallel with the Mercury Music Awards, the winning entry being used as the cover art for the album of winning musicians. Among the judges was Sir Peter Blake of Sgt Pepper's fame. Leo's painting was subsequently exhibited at an art gallery in London's Covent Garden. As a student Leo showed his work at The Line Gallery in Linlithgow. He has also exhibited in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and South Queensferry.

Plans are already in place to exhibit in Edinburgh at the Leith Gallery's 'New Faces' exhibition and at the Carby Art Gallery in Aberdeen. Much of his work is inspired by his love of nature and the time he spends in the countryside.

Leo was supported in his new business venture to become a freelance artist by The Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust and Business Gateway.

For more information about the support available for new businesses phone 01506-777400. Leo Du Feu's work can be seen at www.leodufeu.co.uk