A self-taught Kirkcaldy wildlife painter, whose confidence was knocked at school, is using her international success to help build a new home for a rescued puma.

Kirsten Mirrey gave up applying for art school after receiving harsh critiques while preparing for school exams in St Andrews. Demoralised, she took an apprenticeship in equine care at a Leven stud farm, only picking up her brushes to paint pet portraits in the evenings after work.

But after her large-scale oil paintings of big cats began selling on social media to collectors across America, Canada, and Europe, the 30-year old artist, inspired by fellow Fife painter Jack Vettriano, is now using her talent to support wildlife conservation closer to home.

Kirsten has partnered with Five Sisters Zoo in West Lothian to launch "Art for Inca", a timed charity print release of the zoo’s 10-year-old resident puma which she has recently completed.

Kirsten Mirrey with her artwork (Pic: Submitted)

placeholder image — Kirsten Mirrey with her artwork (Pic: Submitted)

Gary Curran, head carnivore keeper, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Kirsten for choosing to collaborate with us and support Inca in such a creative way.

“Having seen firsthand where Inca came from, we’re committed to giving her the best possible home. She’s an incredible cat with a real character, and truly deserves this chance. Kirsten’s artwork captures Inca beautifully, and we hope it encourages people to get behind the campaign. The funds raised will make a real difference and play an important role in helping us achieve this.”

Inca arrived at the zoo last October after her previous facility closed. She is currently housed in a temporary enclosure next to the snow leopard, where staff say she is growing in confidence and showing her playful side.

Now, Kirsten is releasing a strictly limited run of prints of her Inca portrait, available for just four days from May 1-4. Every penny of profit from the sales will be donated directly to the zoo’s puma enclosure fund to help build Inca a permanent, purpose-built home.

Kirsten said: “When I heard about Inca’s story and how Five Sisters Zoo stepped in when she had nowhere else to go, I knew I wanted to help. I've always been passionate about big cats, they are the main focus of my work, and to be able to use my art to directly fund a better life for a rescued puma right here in Scotland is incredibly special. “

To register for first access visit www.kirstenmirreyart.com.