July 2026

Name: Lesley Anne Derks

How did your creative journey start?

Even as a child, I always knew I wanted to be an artist. I began by drawing characters and people, and as I grew older, my interests gradually developed into landscape-based themes.  During my time at art school, I was heavily influenced by the industrial surroundings of my hometown Grangemouth, creating drawings and studies inspired by this. A key turning point came when I took part in an exchange programme to Barcelona. There, I became fascinated by the atmosphere of cityscapes at night and the way the artificial light transformed environments. The experience made me realise that my hometown of Grangemouth offered a similarly compelling subject. The contrast between industry, darkness and illumination became central to my work. Since then, I have focused on exploring light within industrial and urban landscapes and interiors, using it to capture mood, atmosphere and a sense of place. This fascination continues to shape and inspire my practice today.

Can you explain your creative process? How has it changed over time?

My creative process is driven by a fascination with portraying light and atmosphere. In my early work, I used enamel and oil paint in a highly abstract way, creating glowing landscapes that echoed the skies and industrial landscapes of Grangemouth. Over time, my practice has evolved as I have continued to explore new ways of capturing light and reflection. After attending the Edinburgh School of Icon Painting, I began incorporating different metal leaf into my work, adding new depth and luminosity. I later attended a resin course at Eli-Chem Resins in Surrey, which introduced another layer of transparency and light effects to my paintings. More recently I have started to paint on aluminium, a surface I enjoy for its unique reflective qualities. My process is constantly developing, with experimentation and learning playing a key role in how I create and represent light. 

Who influences you? Which other creatives’ work do you love?

I draw inspiration from a wide range of artists and traditions. I am particularly interested in icon painting and its traditional techniques, craftsmanship and use of light. Alongside this, I am inspired by more contemporary and abstract artists. I admire Anselm Kiefer for the scale of his work and his rich use of texture and layered surfaces. I am also influenced by Peter Doig, particularly his distinctive colour palettes and the way he uses colour to transform landscapes and evoke emotion. The scale and immersive quality of his paintings are especially inspiring. Another artist whose work I greatly admire is Gerhard Richter. I am drawn to the softness and subtlety of his paintings and the way he balances abstraction and representation. These influences continue to shape my own exploration of light, surface and atmosphere.  

What advice would you give creatives who are just starting out?

My advice to creatives just starting out is not to worry if you haven’t found your own style or theme yet. The early stages are about experimenting, trying different approaches and discovering what you enjoy and want to develop further. Enjoy the creative journey, don’t be afraid to make mistakes and try not to compare yourself to others. Growth comes through practice, exploration and finding your own path. 

What can visitors expect when visiting your space during Falkirk Open Studios?

Visitors to my art studio can expect plenty to explore, including a variety of works in progress on surfaces such as canvas, wood and metal. You’ll find framed and mounted prints, enamel and oil paintings, pieces incorporating metal leaf, and artwork featuring resin. The studio offers an insight into my creative process and the different materials and techniques I use in my work.