Douglas Laird was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1946. He became interested in art very early in life. By the age of fifteen, he apprenticed at an advertising agency / art studio in his home town. During that time he also attended the Edinburgh College Of Art where he studied life drawing and draped life extensively.

Douglas' travels throughout North America and Europe after his education have had a strong influence on the subject matter and medium now used in his paintings. He enjoys painting and feels comfortable in all mediums. His subjects include; landscape, nostalgia, still life, children and everyday activities. Douglas emigrated to Canada in 1965 and currently resides in Ontario.