Art by a Dundee and north Fife father and daughter duo is being hosted in a joint exhibition at The Torrance Gallery in Edinburgh. Twelve years after the passing of acclaimed DC Thomson illustrator Douglas Phillips, the exhibition is showcasing 17 of his evocative pieces alongside 14 of his daughter Deborah’s vibrant landscapes. Douglas Phillips, a name synonymous with the rich artistic heritage of Dundee, is celebrated for his atmospheric depictions of the Mearns in both oil and watercolour.
His illustrious career spanned decades, particularly noted for his contributions to children’s literature in the 1960s and 70s, and his iconic covers for under the pseudonym J. Campbell Kerr. His portrayal of old Dundee remains etched in the memory of many locals, yet his broader acclaim as an accomplished artist across Scotland is less widely known.
, 59, a full-time landscape painter based in Wormit, has carved out her own niche in the art world, drawing inspiration from the stunning vistas of Scotland. A graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in her home city of Dundee, her studio in Woodhaven, Wormit, overlooks the Tay to Dundee, a constant reminder of her father’s legacy and the artistic journey she continues. This exhibition marks a significant moment as it intertwines their works, highlighting the distinct yet harmonious styles of the Phillips family.
“Dad was a tremendous influence on me,” said Deborah. “For as long as I can remember, I always had.