THE legendary director of Glasgow Print Studio is stepping down.

After 40 years at the top of the gallery and workshop space, John Mackechnie MBE RSA will be leaving the studio with big shoes to fill.

The printmaking pioneer began his career as a 15-year-old copy boy in the Glasgow newspaper trade, following in his father's footsteps.

He went on to study drawing and painting at Glasgow School of Art, graduating in 1971.

Afterwards, he completed his postgraduate degree in printmaking at the University of Brighton.

John became the director of GPS in January 1983 and has had an incredible impact on Glasgow's art scene.

He was elected to the Royal Scottish Academy in 2005 and recognised for his services to art in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in 2019 where he was given an MBE.

In a touching tribute to the former director, a spokesperson shared the news of John's departure on the GPS Facebook page.

They wrote: "It is true to say that without the foresight of John Mackechnie, the artistic quarter in the Trongate area of the city may never have come to fruition.

"The staff, board and members of GPS extend their thanks to John for everything he has achieved and created and will endeavour to take his pioneering spirit and legacy forward into the future."