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Norman Gilbert was born in Trinidad in 1926 and moved to Scotland at an early age. Always enchanted by drawing and painting, after a stint in the Royal Navy, he entered Glasgow School of Art in the hopes of forging a career as an artist.

Unfortunately, he and his tutors, artistically speaking, didn't see eye to eye. After failing to persuade them to allow him his art diploma Norman worked as an art teacher, supported by his wife Pat. He returned some years later and did eventually manage to achieve his diploma but refused to follow the artistic language of the time instead opting for bold flat colours and patterns: his own unique style.

He and his wife brought up four sons and all the while Norman continued his art, reflecting the importance of his family who were regularly the subjects of his paintings.

Now aged 91, Norman continues to paint and draw every day. Here he discusses his life experience and offers some sage advice for budding artists everywhere.