Originally from Scotland, Hugo’s early fascination with masters such as Rubens and Titian led him to seek out classical training in drawing and painting in Florence, Italy. There, he studied at an atelier steeped in the methods and practices of historical painting. The curriculum would include long hours spent studying the nude (with some poses lasting for weeks at a time) in order to cultivate a thorough understanding of form, perspective, and light and shade. After completing the program, Hugo held a teaching position at the school, but eventually, he turned his attention seriously to landscape painting, swapping the somber environment of the studio for the erratic conditions of the outdoors. In addition to the constantly changing light, there were now other factors to deal with such as wind, rain and wildlife. The variable conditions greatly appealed to him, and the fun of painting outdoors became a catalyst for a new direction. He began painting plein air throughout Europe, in Russia and Nepal, and recently in New Orleans. The eclectic architecture and confluence of cultural influences make New Orleans a truly unique and endlessly fascinating source of inspiration, especially for someone who insists on painting right in the street. Hugo's paintings are in private collections across Europe and the States. He also holds a degree in Art History from the Warwick University in the United Kingdom.