ARTIST Paul Emsley, 59, moved to the UK from South Africa 10 years ago. Although born in Glasgow he grew up in South Africa and taught drawing and painting at the University of Stellenbosch for 12 years.

He was recently shortlisted for the BP Portrait Award, organised by the National Gallery, for his painting of fellow artist Michael Simpson. He is married and lives with his wife in Bradford on Avon.

How would your best friend describe you?

I don't really do best friends but I imagine my various close friends would say that I am too serious and that beyond a certain point I'm difficult to get close to.

I hope that they might also say that there are moments of lightness and humour.

Where would you recommend for a great evening out and why?

I like the Thai Barn in Bradford on Avon.

The food is deliciously subtle, the atmosphere discreet and you can usually hear yourself talk.

What do you do for fun?

My greatest pleasure lies in working quietly in my studio.

Describe your most vivid dream.

Although I dream regularly I seldom remember the details.

Because we moved here from South Africa ten years ago they mostly seem to be about places and being in transit.

Who in the public eye do you most respect and why?

I'm afraid I suspect the deeper motives of most, even if they do good eventually. I would have to say that I most respect people who work quietly for the good of others without the need to be seen and recognised.

What is your biggest regret?

That we are unable to know the meaning of the universe, where we come from and why we are here. Also that I won't live long enough to see what happens in the world over the next hundred years or so.

What is your favourite film or TV show and why?

I enjoy Have I Got News For You. It's intelligent, witty and quick. I try to avoid Hollywood and blockbuster films and those with well-known actors. The films I usually see and enjoy are shown at film societies.

What makes you sad?

That we are transient and mortal. One works so hard to try to get things more or less right but then it ends.

Describe your perfect day.

In my studio when a painting is coming to completion, tea in the garden with my wife and knowing that all's well with the children.