For award-winning Falkirk-based artist and Forth Valley Chamber Member, Jacqueline Marr, a spontaneous decision led to an extraordinary and deeply personal moment during a royal visit to The Peak, Stirling’s sports village, earlier this year.
A professional figurative painter specialising in portraiture and oil painting, Jacqueline has been self-employed for 26 years, building a respected career since graduating from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, University of Dundee, in 1999. A member of the Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce, her artistic journey has long been shaped by dedication and ambition.
On 20 January 2026, knowing that The Prince and Princess of Wales were scheduled to visit Falkirk and Stirling, Jacqueline made a last-minute decision that morning to travel to The Peak. With a long-held goal of one day painting the royal couple, she brought along a signed print of Everlasting – a new release of one of her feather oil paintings – hopeful for an opportunity to present it in person.
That opportunity arose ahead of the royal couple’s scheduled engagement at Scotland’s national curling centre in the lead-up to the Winter Olympics, as they took time to greet members of the public. Jacqueline introduced herself to the Princess, expressing her admiration for her work – particularly her support of the arts – and sharing her aspiration to one day paint both her and the Prince.
What followed was a heartfelt and memorable exchange. After accepting the artwork, the Princess spoke with Jacqueline about art and nature, creating a brief but meaningful personal connection that culminated in a genuine and moving gesture – a hug that made the encounter all the more special.
Jacqueline said: “It was an ‘everlasting’ memory, a moment in time that I will never forget.”
This marked her first personal encounter with a member of the Royal Family since attending a Royal Garden Party at Holyrood Palace early in her career, after receiving support from the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust, now The King’s Trust.
Reflecting on the experience, Jacqueline believes it is a powerful example of what can happen when you take initiative: “I believe anything is achievable when we put our minds to it, and part of that is creating and seizing opportunities.”
For Jacqueline, this unplanned moment has become a defining highlight in an already accomplished career – and perhaps the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Watch this space.
Jacqueline continues to create bespoke commissions and oil paintings, demonstrating how passion and initiative can open doors to remarkable opportunities. Fellow Chamber members and readers can subscribe to learn more or enquire about commissions and signed prints of Everlasting via her website: www.jacquelinemarr.co.uk
