Exclusive Interview of Ruby Mcmenemy

I’m a qualified historian as well as an artist, and whilst I worked in that area for a few years (and in other areas), I decided to turn my 31-year part-time profession into full-time employment a year ago, mingling my passion for history with my passion and skill in the art. – Ruby Mcmenemy

Times of Youth: How would you describe your work to someone who has never known about it?

Ruby Mcmenemy: l describe my work as fine art with a focus on accuracy and color.

Times of Youth: What sparked your initial interest in arts?

Ruby Mcmenemy: A head teacher in primary school saw a painting I did in my first year, where I painted snow in pinks and blues and liked it so much she put it on her office wall.

Times of Youth: At what age did you start doing all this work? Has your family always been supportive of this choice of career?

Ruby Mcmenemy: I was aged 5 when I first realized my potential, and I became professional, gleaning commissions for my work from aged 16. I received no encouragement at home, therefore I worked harder at school as the positive results meant more encouragement from the teaching staff. My children and friends are extremely supportive, and I now have a sizeable following on the social media.

Times of Youth: If not this, what else would you have taken up as your 2nd career of choice and why?

Ruby Mcmenemy: I was a historian, working for the University of Edinburgh, and then for The National Trust for Scotland. I have also, as a historian, provided professional genealogical services.

Times of Youth: Do tell us how has your experience been in your current field so far.

Ruby Mcmenemy: On a full-time scale, it was difficult to start with, but in less than a year I have galleries interested in my work, including publishers and art collectors.