Catriona Millar

of colour, character, and the quiet magic that Millar brings to every canvas.Catriona Millar is one of the most distinctive and beloved voices in contemporary Scottish art, known for her bold palette, stylised figures, and the emotional narratives that unfold quietly within her compositions. In Josefine and Little Wing, Millar introduces a serene, introspective character whose closed eyes and gentle expression invite the viewer into a private, contemplative world.

Josefine’s reddish‑brown hair sweeps to one side in flowing, sculptural shapes, echoing the organic forms of the flowers and stems that surround her. Her clothing—purple with green stripes and a soft pink collar—adds to the sense of individuality and quiet theatricality that defines Millar’s portraiture. The dark background heightens the vibrancy of the colours, allowing the figure and flora to glow with a jewel‑like intensity.

Perched among the stylised plants is “Little Wing,” a turquoise bird with red accents. As in many of Millar’s works, the animal companion becomes both symbol and storyteller—an emblem of imagination, intuition, or emotional freedom. The relationship between Josefine and the bird is tender and enigmatic, suggesting a dialogue between inner life and the natural world.

Millar’s work sits firmly within the tradition of Scottish narrative painting, yet her voice remains unmistakably her own: whimsical, modern, and deeply human. Josefine and Little Wing is a celebration of colour, character, and the quiet magic that Millar brings to every canvas.