Howson's work goes under hammer for Scottish Opera

ACCLAIMED Scottish artist Peter Howson is one of 18 leading painters and photographers who are contributing their work to Scottish Opera's first ever art fair.

The controversial painter, who has sold paintings to Madonna, David Bowie and Mick Jagger, was among the artists who donated a piece of work to be auctioned last night.

The proceeds raised from the exhibition, which runs from today until Saturday at the city's Dovecot Studios, will be used to support Scottish Opera's productions for the 2010/11 season.

Contributing artist Jock MacInnes said: "I've always thoroughly enjoyed opera, since being introduced to it by my tutors back in art school.

"The first opera I ever saw was La Bohme, which was fantastic, and ever since that performance I've just loved it.

"I was happy to contribute my work to Scottish Opera's art fair, as it is such a good cause."