TRIBUTES have been paid to the celebrated North-East artist Sheila Mackie, who has died following illness.

Ms Mackie, 82, of Shotley Bridge, near Consett, County Durham, was known for her wildlife and futuristic works, created in her caravan-cum-studio.

Her son, James Fenwick- Baines, said: “She was a fiery character in the best possible way – small in stature but a giant of a personality.

“Everyone who came across her either loved her or hated her, and the majority loved her.

Those who hated her simply couldn’t handle her.”

A painter in oils and acrylics, Ms Mackie exhibited at the Royal Academy and the Scottish Royal Academy.

As a young art teacher, she would “run away” to the old Bertram Mills circus for several months every year – painting life under the big top.

She taught art at the former Consett Grammar School, now Blackfyne, from 1950 to 1982.

One of her pupils was British television, stage and film actor Alun Armstrong, who said she had inspired him to do a degree in fine art at Newcastle University when he failed to get into drama school.

Her work brought her to the attention of other actors including Donald Sinden and Charlton Heston.

Her last solo exhibition, at Durham City’s DLI Art Gallery, was called Through the Eyes of the Dragon, reflecting her interest in the Chinese horoscope.

An occasional lecturer at Sunderland College of Art, she illustrated books by David Bellamy and Magnus Magnusson.

Ms Mackie is also survived by daughter Anneliese and two grandchildren.

Her funeral service will be held at the Mountsett Crematorium, Dipton, at 11.45am on Friday.