Hamish Constable Paterson's middle name was a tribute to John Constable who was deeply admired by his father, James Paterson RSA. Like his father, Hamish was well regarded during his lifetime and produced a diverse array of paintings including portraits, landscapes and scenes.

On the 30th of August 2000, a portrait titled ‘Tranquility’ reached £3,000 at Sotheby’s. It depicts a young lady looking left before a landscape and a vast sky. Her expression is enigmatic and captivating, which seems to be a common thread in Hamish’s portraits.

Hamish studied at Edinburgh School of Art and exhibited at the RSA Annual Exhibitions between 1912 and 1949. He also exhibited at the Royal Academy, Royal Scottish Academy and Royal Glasgow Institute of Fine Arts.