Olivia Urqhart studied art and design in Carlisle and worked in tapestry design for Courtaulds. Following a postgraduate course at St Martins College of Art she worked as a freelance fashion illustrator.

Working in oils, Olivia has developed a rich impasto technique, building up remarkably thick layers of paint and mixing the colours directly on the canvas. Often painting fishing harbours, woodland scenes and dramatic sunsets, Olivia paints in a particularly expressionistic manner, portraying the mood of the landscape.

Born in Invernesshire and brought up in the Highlands of Scotland, she has a deep connection with the Scottish landscape and culture. Her passionate interest in fashion and fabrics has also has a strong influence on her approach to painting.