Alexandra Gardner was born in 1945. She studied at the Glasgow School of Art from 1963-1968 and was offered an immediate teaching and lecturing post there upon graduation, where she remained for twenty years.

Throughout her teaching career, Gardner exhibited in London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Gothenburg, Auckland, Dublin and New York. She is now one of Scotland’s most accomplished female painters. Her work is included in many public and private collections – Glasgow Art Gallery and Museum, The Fine Art Society, Gothenburg Education Authority, The Fleming-Wyfold Art Foundation London, Royal College of Physicians Edinburgh, Royal Bank of Scotland. She also has work in private collections including UK, USA, Japan, Sweden, Italy, Australia and New Zealand.

Gardner’s range of subject matter is extensive, but she is particularly noted for her figurative work which amply demonstrates her drawing skill and sensitive use of tone and colour. Another skill reflected through her work is her close perception of people’s moods whether in repose or engaged in various activities within a range of environments, such as bars, carnival, opera, barbershop.