A Highland Stream by William Darling McKay (1844-1924) portrays a tranquil rural scene bathed in soft afternoon light. The painting features a gently flowing stream that stretches into the distance, bordered by trees on either side. Centrally positioned near the stream’s edge are two faintly visible figures whose subdued tones blend almost seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of quiet harmony. McKay studied art in Edinburgh before travelling to Holland, where he was deeply influenced by The Hague School’s focus on outdoor painting and atmospheric effects - an approach reflected in his careful treatment of light and mood. Upon returning to Scotland, he turned his attention to pastoral scenes from East Lothian, often depicting rural life with a sensitivity reminiscent of Jean François Millet (1814-1875), especially in his portrayals of men and women working the land. 

William Darling McKay, 1844-1924

William Darling McKay RSA was born in 1844 in Gifford, East Lothian. He moved to Edinburgh at the age of 16 to pursue art, he entered Trustees Academy in 1860 and attended RSA Life Schools.Then travelled to Holland, where he was greatly influenced by The Hague School painters. The Hague painters preferred to work out of doors, focusing on the effects of light and atmosphere on the landscape. When McKay returned to Scotland, he sought out rural subjects in his native East Lothian, and his paintings have become associated with the region. McKay's pastoral landscapes are filled with scenes from rural life, especially images of men and women working the land. In 1919, he was granted an honorary LLD by the University of Edinburgh and became known as Dr McKay. McKAy has exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy, the Royal Glasgow Institute of Fine Arts and Aberdeen Artists Society. He died in Edinburgh in 1924.