THIS MONTH sees two new exhibitions open at the Fergusson Gallery in Perth.

Early Impressions focuses upon J. D. Fergusson’s visits to Paris, from 1897 until he moved there in 1907.

During the 19th century and the first half of the 20th, Paris was considered to be the centre of progressive art, with artists travelling from all over Europe to live and work there.

Fergusson’s influences from 1897 onwards include the work of James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Arthur Melville, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Samuel John Peploe.

His awareness of the work of the Impressionists began to show in the paintings he produced back in Scotland.

Later, after Fergusson moved to Montparnasse, the district of Paris favoured by foreign artists, he became more absorbed in the mix of artists, writers, dancers and art critics.

During this period a group called the Fauves (wild beasts), including Henri Matisse, Andre Derain and Maurice de Vlaminck, were considered to be the leaders of Parisian avant-garde art.

Their use of bright colours, flat perspective and outlining objects in dark colours, made a huge impact on Fergusson’s work.

Fergusson’s Studio, meanwhile, allows a rare glimpse into the artist’s world.

Fergusson lived in a number of studios in France and Britain.

From his early beginnings at his parent’s house in Edinburgh, to his time in Paris and Cap d’Antibes in the south of France, his paintings record his changing influences.

Fergusson returned to Scotland in 1939, settling in Coulston Street, Glasgow, with Margaret Morris.

He remained there until his death in 1961.

Early Impressions opens on Saturday, running until September 13, and Fergusson’s Studio opens on April 17 until November 1.

The Fergusson Gallery is open Monday to Saturday, from 10am until 5pm.

An art cart has been installed to give visitors a chance to use the free materials and be inspired by Fergusson’s work.