WHAT'S NEW for 2025?
PRINTMAKING
Having spent some time in 2024 working on new experimental work based on the structures below the pier in the harbour in Stornoway, I will be looking to approach my printmaking in a more abstract way.
I aim to reflect the impacts of climate change, flora and fauna, new developments contrasting with the older, original structures and erosion of the coastline.
EXHIBITIONS
I organised 3 exhibitions on the islands in 2024 for members of Open Studios Hebrides. This coming year I am taking a step back and focussing on my own work.
I am secretary of the the new PRINTMAKERS of SCOTLAND organisation and we had a very successful Festival at Stirling University in August 2024. We are already planning for the 2025 festival.
I also had work at The Birch Tree Gallery in Edinburgh, at Ironbridge as part of their printmakers' exhibition and at various small galleries on the island. I am currently showing some new artwork at the Grinneas exhibition at An Lanntair in Stornoway.
Open Studios Hebrides will be holding their first 2025 exhibition in January.
OPEN STUDIOS HEBRIDES 2025
The 4th Open Studios event was held in July/August last summer with over 40 artists and makers across both Lewis and Harris opening the doors of their workplaces to welcome visitors. There were also several group venues for those members who do not have studios.
From the initial year with a group of 12 artists, there are now over 50 members. ​​
The new chairperson for 2025 has made a great job of updating the website and has plenty of ideas for the coming year.
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Information on how to get involved for 2025 is available on
the website
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EXPLORING PRINTMAKING
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My book for Bloomsbury Press on printmaking techniques that can be done at home without a press or expensive equipment was finally completed in November this year. It has been a lot of work, a steep learning curve and has challenged my technical skills but, overall, a very enjoyable experience.
The book covers a variety of different styles of printing with step by step instructions and lots of photos. It includes projects to make use of the printed papers that you will accumulate after trying out the print activities.
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I hope that the book will appeal to the beginners who want to try out ways of getting into printmaking but also to more experienced artists who are returning to this artform and are ready to try something new.
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I have been fortunate to be able to include contributions from other printmakers :
Susan Yeates
Karen Komurcu
Suzie Mackenzie
Clare Youngs
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The book is due to be available in April 2025
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