Almost a hundred relatives of Sir Joseph Noel Paton, a renowned Scottish painter beloved by Queen Victoria, came together to pay tribute to the artist. The gathering took place at a special exhibition in Dunfermline, the artist’s hometown, where family members have contributed five oil paintings and over 30 drawings for display. The exhibition, showcasing over 80 pieces of Paton’s work, aims to shed light on the artist’s legacy and talent.
Among the guests at the reception were descendants spanning three generations, from the oldest surviving great-grandchild to the youngest great-great-great-grandchild. Paton, who held the prestigious title of Queen’s Limner in Scotland, captured the hearts of many during his lifetime with his captivating artworks. The exhibition features poignant sketches of Queen Victoria and her children, highlighting Paton’s connection to royalty.
Despite his widespread fame, Paton prioritized his family life, earning him the nickname of ‘the Infantry’ for his 11 children. Domestic scenes, such as the tender portrait of his wife and son, as well as a painting of his young son who tragically passed away, offer a glimpse into Paton’s personal life. For the descendants, seeing the sketches that have been passed down through generations on public display is a momentous occasion.
One of Paton’s great-great-granddaughters expressed excitement over the retrospective, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Paton’s artistic contributions. Another descendant mentioned the diverse themes present in Paton’s work, from Scottish history to fairies, ensuring there is something for everyone to appreciate in the exhibition. The family gathering, organized by the cultural charity OnFife, provided a rare opportunity for relatives to come together and celebrate their shared heritage.
The curator of the exhibition, Lesley-Anne Lettice, expressed delight in facilitating the family reunion and honoring Paton’s legacy. The gathering not only serves as a fitting tribute to the artist but also allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of his work. By bringing together descendants from various branches of the family tree, the exhibition creates a sense of unity and shared pride in their ancestor’s artistic achievements.
