About Dorothy Ramsay

Dorothy Ramsay is a distinguished British artist whose evocative landscapes and expressive works are a quirky observation of her rural surroundings. Residing beneath the slopes of Blencathra, her surroundings profoundly influence her artistic vision, capturing the region's ever-changing light and moods.

  • Dorothy's passion for art ignited early; at eight, she began drawing lessons at the Shipley Art Gallery. By sixteen, she was immersed in full-time studies at Sunderland Art College, focusing on printmaking. She further honed her skills at Camberwell School of Arts and Crafts in London, earning a degree in art. Her academic pursuits culminated in two Master's degrees—one in Art and another in Systemic Family Therapy.

    Throughout her multifaceted career, Dorothy has seamlessly blended her roles as an artist, educator, therapist, and weaver. She established a weaving shed at the Findhorn Foundation in Scotland and later at Wetheriggs Pottery near Penrith. These experiences enriched her artistic perspective, infusing her works with depth and texture.

  • Dorothy's work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions, including solo shows and retrospectives. Notably, her first solo exhibition at Northern Lights Gallery in Keswick featured 15 pieces, highlighting her versatility across mediums like acrylics, oils, pastels, and collages.

    Her pieces are prominently displayed at Northern Lights Gallery in Keswick and the EVAN Gallery in Penrith. Collectors and art enthusiasts are drawn to her unique interpretations of landscapes.

Poster for a documentary titled 'Show Up and Start: The Art and Life of Dorothy Ramsay' featuring an illustration of Dorothy Ramsay in front of a colorful, abstract background.

  • Dorothy's life and artistry are the focus of the acclaimed documentary Show Up and Start: The Art and Life of Dorothy Ramsay. Directed by Neil Emery, with music by Geoffrey Roden. The folio artist (sound effects) was Shelley Roden.

    The 47-minute film delves into her journey, from her postwar childhood in northeast England to her diverse roles as a weaver, therapist, and dedicated artist. The documentary has garnered multiple accolades, including: (On Y Va Films)

    • Best International Short Documentary at the Golden State Film Festival (2025)

    • Best Feature Documentary at the Dublin Movie Awards (January 2025)

    • Best Feature Documentary at the Manchester Lift-Off Film Festival (2025)

    • Documentary Feature Bronze Award at the Latitude Film Awards (October 2024)(On Y Va Films)

    The film is scheduled for screening at the Windermere Jetty Museum on June 29, 2025.

  • Dorothy's art is characterised by a dynamic interplay between abstraction and romantic realism. Her palette ranges from electrifying hues to subtle pastels, reflecting a range of diverse atmospheres. Influences from artists like Paul Klee and Winifred Nicholson, as well as Gobelins tapestry traditions, are evident in her work.

    Her creations often depict the Lake District, the west coast of Scotland and the west coast of Cumbria, featuring fells, valleys, and ever-shifting weather patterns, offering viewers a deeply personal and immersive experience.

A painted still life featuring a vase of orange and yellow flowers, a cheerful yellow lion, and a seaside landscape of white houses and brown hills in the background.

Connect with Dorothy

Dorothy maintains a studio in Penrith and Mungrisdale and continues to produce paintings, etchings, and drawings inspired by her surroundings. Her latest works and updates can be found HERE as well as on her Instagram and Facebook pages.

For inquiries or to view Dorothy’s art in person, please get in touch HERE