Joan Renton

Joan Renton was born in Sunderland, County Durham. She studied painting at Edinburgh College of Art from 1953–58, and counted William Gillies, John Maxwell and William MacTaggart amongst her teachers. After a post-diploma scholarship year in 1959, she was awarded a travelling scholarship which she spent in Spain. In 1960, she took a teaching diploma at Moray House, Edinburgh, and taught art throughout Edinburgh until 1980. Renton was elected a member of SSA in 1960, SSWA in 1972 (becoming President in 1990) and RSW in 1974. Her subject matter ranges from landscape, botanical studies and still life. The Gallery represented Renton in the 70s and 80s.

Renton’s paintings and works on paper are a revelation; her practice puts her firmly in the Edinburgh School of Painting. At her best, her painting equals that of her direct contemporary, Elizabeth Blackadder.