Join us for an evening of discussion, history and celebration as we launch the biography of the famed yet forgotten Scottish artist, James McBey. by journalist and debut author Alasdair Soussi.

The story of McBey is resurrected in Alasdair Soussi’s Shadows and Light: the Extraordinary life of James McBey. It is a tale of artistry, love and discovery. Born the illegitimate son of a seamstress, McBey grew up determined to prosper. Starting out as a bank clerk, he took evening art lessons, discovered his talent and forged a career as a painter and etcher. He worked as a war artist in the Middle East during WWI. His experiences there resulted in a love of Middle Eastern culture, a friendship with T. E. Lawrence, an artistic output spanning his lifetime – including the famous portrait of T.E Lawrence held in the Imperial War Museum – and a passion for life and adventure.

"In this revelatory biography, Alasdair Soussi brings this complex and mesmerising man to life, setting his art alongside his unrestrained private life, and giving him the literary portrait he has long deserved."

– James Barr, author of 'A Line in the Sand: Britain, France and the Struggle that shaped the Middle East'

"Soussi writes as evocatively as McBey paints."

– Stuart Hadaway, author of 'From Gaza to Jerusalem: The Campaign for Southern Palestine 1917'

The launch will be hosted by The Gallery Bookshop in Glasgow. There will be refreshments of wine and soft drinks available for guests. There will be an opportunity to purchase the book and have it signed as well as ask any questions you may have for the author. You can pre-order the book here on the website to have it signed at the event.

Tickets are free and you can reserve them using the link above.

We look forward to seeing you there!