Perth teacher’s astonishing Biro artworks netted Tunnock’s deal

Perth teacher Nicola Mcbride has clinched a deal with food giant Tunnock’s – thanks to her trusty Biro pens.

Nicola, 47, who heads Perth High School’s art department, is one of the few known selling artists to draw solely with a ballpoint nib.

Her first Biro-only drawing was of her Airedale Terrier dog Alfie three years ago.

The image was a huge hit and she has since had her work exhibited in shows across Scotland.

Many of Dundee-born Nicola’s drawings are inspired by Scottish culture and she has won a commission with Mackays and a deal with Tunnock’s for her depictions of their products.

This has enabled her to go down to teaching parttime and fulfil a lifelong dream of earning a living through her art.

“It was always my dream to be a working artist but I never thought it would come true,” she said.

This feature details Nicola’s journey to fulfilling that dream.

One of Nicola’s greatest inspirations was Liz Morrocco, her art teacher at the former Rockwell High School in Dundee.

Liz was the daughter-inlaw of the famous Scottish artist Alberto Morrocco.

“She really encouraged me to do a lot in my spare time,” said Nicola, who grew up in Ardler and also attended Macalpine Primary School.

“She gave me extra oneto-ones at lunchtimes.

“She did a lot of her own work as well, which I found inspirational.

“She sold her work and I thought ‘this is possible for me as well’.”

Nicola Mcbride with her Tunnock’s art commission.