An 88-year-old man from Edinburgh who rediscovered a passion for painting later in life will put on an exhibition at the nursing home in which he resides.
Martin Birkhans, a former senior lecturer at the Edinburgh School of Architecture created the works in ‘Sketches from a Wheelchair’ while gazing out of the window of the Cramond Residence.
The pensioner was born in Latvia but his family relocated to Canada in 1948 following the country’s annexation by the Soviet Union.
His sister, who still lives in Canada, is a professional painter, and he keeps her artwork alongside paintings by his father in his room at Cramond Residence.
Read More:
Mr Birkhans said: “I have never considered myself an artist, nor do I claim to be one now. But painting has been a wonderful way to keep my mind active.
“Nature has always fascinated me, and much of my work is inspired by the world outside my window.
“The exhibition wasn’t my idea – my daughters encouraged me to share my work, and I’m looking forward to seeing how people react to it.”=
“I started drawing the flowers outside, and it evolved from there. My daughters send me photographs of places they know I love, and I paint from memory, imagination, and a little artistic licence.
Martin Birkhans with his framed paintings (Image: Cramond House) “I hope people enjoy the paintings as much as I enjoyed making them. I never set out to exhibit them, but I’m glad my daughters convinced me otherwise.
“Who knows? Maybe I’ll inspire someone else to pick up a paintbrush, no matter their age.”
Richard Annan, Head of Sales and Marketing at Cramond Residence said: “Martin is a truly inspiring individual, and his exhibition is a testament to his talent, humour, and sheer determination.
“He has a unique way of seeing the world, and we’re thrilled to help him share his work with others. His paintings are not just beautiful; they tell a story of resilience and creativity.”