Oakley artist’s incredible talent hidden in his attic

Tom Canning, from Oakley, has been hiding his special talent, and for more than three decades, has been painting from his attic.

Over 200 paintings cover the walls and jars overflow with hundreds of brushes.

Tom, who recently celebrated over fifty years of dedicated service to the St Vincent de Paul Society, has lived in Oakley his entire life.

Tom was also a valued member of the Oakley Art Group, founded by Irene Haliday, where local artists gathered every Thursday for years to share ideas and encourage each other.

Tom has been inspired by his local area, such as the ships of Rosyth (Image: Supplied)The group decided to make an exhibition including Tom’s work.

Irene said: “We had to arrange the exhibition without him knowing, he has always been modest about his talent.”

Tom’s painting is inspired by his interests, both local and international. He has painted sweeping Scottish landscapes, the vast ships docking in Rosyth and Monet-inspired flowers.

Tom’s work will be shown off at the Oakley Community Centre (Image: Supplied)Over 30 of his paintings will be on display at Oakley Community Centre from 11th to 15th August.

Everyone is warmly invited to the opening evening on 11th August, 7:00–9:00 pm, a chance to meet Tom, celebrate his work, and discover the secret attic studio that has brought so much colour to his life.