I came across the extraordinary talent of Waterson for the first time at the inaugural Arts Festival in Brechin where his work was displayed in abundance. I remember being in awe of how the artist had managed to capture the essence of local countryside working in such diverse mediums. That exhibition of his work gave me great pleasure that day and has stayed with me ever since. My favourite of all is ‘Rain’ a watercolour painted in 1909. It is alive to the senses with all that rain does bring, smells, sounds, trickles down the neck, I feel as if I am there! So many wonderful examples and familiar places, his talent knew no bounds, from landscapes to portraits and all between.
As I gaze at this wonderful collection I wonder what went through Waterson’s mind as he worked. Did his poetry flow from him at the same time? We can only imagine today what drove the man on to such an abundance and variety of work, recorded here and so precious!
Jan Hensman