FORMER Bridge of Allan Primary School pupil Mark Holden is heading "home" to take part in an art exhibition in the village.

Mark now lives in Fife, but samples of his work will be on display at the private Ealain Gallery from November 16-18 at the home of gallery owners June and Cameron McCann.

The McCanns host exhibitions around the country from hotels to retail outlets to the corporate markets but always host two open weekends at their Bridge of Allan home in winter and summer.

The winter exhibition, featuring work by Mark Holden, Pam Carter, Ricky Wiatrek and Alan Anderson, is previewed on Friday, November 16 from 7.30-9.30pm with open viewing taking place on Saturday and Sunday from 11am-5pm.
A percentage of all sales will go to BBC's Children in Need.

Mark lived as a youngster in Westerlea Drive in Bridge of Allan, and is a former pupil of Bridge of Allan Primary and Wallace High School.

He was greatly influenced by his then high school art teacher Mr Dixon, and is delighted to be exhibiting back home for the first time. He has made contact with his teacher and is hoping to meet up with him at the opening preview.

Ealain's June McCann said: "Mark had not been in Bridge of Allan since he left many years ago, until we approached him about exhibiting with the gallery. This has brought back many memories from his childhood.

"He was recently the chosen artist for the McMillan Cancer charity art show in Glasgow, where his donated painting raised more than £7000 in their raffle."

For further information on the winter exhibition contact June McCann on 01786 833647 or 07753 659883 or visit the website at www.ealaingallery.co.uk.

This article is from The Stirling Observer Nov 14th, 2007