One of Scotland's most recognised artists has been giving students advice on how to achieve their dreams.

Steven Brown, known for his Highland Cow McCoo paintings, dropped in to Ayrshire College to inspire students from the PEZ Plus course.

The course aims to equip students with the essential skills, confidence and motivation to progress on to mainstream courses at the college.

Irvine-based Brown spoke to the group about his art, his gallery in Ayr and his new children's book, as well as facing challenges including two heart attacks and dealing with depression.

At the end of the talk he talked to the students individually to hear about their aspirations, encouraging them to aim for a career they will enjoy.

He said "Whenever I speak to a group of pupils or students, my only hope is that at least one person takes something from what I've talked about.

"I loved speaking to the students there. I'm telling them my story but I want to know from them - what's your story?

"One of the female students in there was talking to me about her own artwork, so hopefully she can develop into a prospering young artist.

"You've got to be positive in life. I've always loved art.

"You never, ever think that you can go into something that you love and make a living from it. It's a dream come true."