St Andrews Links Blog

Creative talent in focus: Jonathan Dowling

Jonathan Dowling is a young artist who grew up in a small village near St Andrews and attended university in the town studying Ancient History and Archaeology. Inspired by the historic buildings and surrounding golf courses, he has now pursued his dream of becoming a professional artist.

Jonathan specialises in detailed graphite drawings, taking inspiration from black and white artwork. Working with the Links has given him the opportunity to expand his portfolio. His initial drawings of the rugged landscapes and wildlife of Scotland are juxtaposed by his images of the rolling smooth fairways and green areas of the courses here at St Andrews.

The timeless view of the Swilcan Bridge and world famous backdrop

Most of his drawings are of the Old Course and the surrounding buildings. These are lovingly hand crafted with a high attention to detail, but since they are based on some of the most photographed and well known images in the world, there is no room for error!

Looking out over the 18^th Green Shop and the Old Course

Jonathan’s graphite drawings are unique and arguably give the course and buildings an added sense of depth and detail. His work is striking in its simplicity, but look closer and the detail of his work is hugely impressive.

Jonathan’s art is available to purchase in our stores here at the Links.

The Castle Course clubhouse and course in the foreground with the town of St Andrews nestled in the distance

Words by Catherine Clark, St Andrews Links Golf Shops Administrator