Radical dreaming in art for a better future

To be made uncomfortable
A3 size/11.7x16.5” 150gm smooth cartridge paper
Megan Chapman 
2020
private collection

The pandemic has changed how some of us think about art and work. Perhaps some have realised that the traditional capitalist system is not always beneficial and that there are other ways of living. This has led to a shift as we desire to create a more compassionate inner landscape and society.

We are becoming more aware of how our work can contribute to the greater good. Some of us also realise that we have been exploited or have even exploited ourselves in this outdated system. We may also have begun to deepen our understanding of the importance of art-making post-pandemic, as it allows us to express ourselves in creative ways that can bring joy and deep healing during difficult times.

This shift in thinking has helped us to see our lives beyond striving or has helped us redefine success. Some of us are learning to be even more mindful of our actions and decisions as we build a better future for ourselves and others.

I have always questioned the system rooted in production and consumption. I realise the need for a post-capitalist society. Art can bring joy, solace, understanding, empathy, and hope in times like these.

In a post-capitalist society, joy and optimism are essential for creating a better future. By allowing ourselves to dream of utopia, we can explore the potential of our collective imagination and creativity. We can use this to envision a world where everyone has access to basic necessities, is treated with respect, and is free to pursue their dreams without fear of oppression or exploitation. By looking beyond the limits of our current system, we can create a more equitable and just future for all.

To create this utopia, we must fight against the dominant paradigm, educate others, and challenge their current views with a more radical vision of an equitable society. This means that we must work collectively, in solidarity, while also challenging our assumptions and biases to continually improve our understanding of the world. This idea of creating a better future is not new—it has been part of human life for thousands of years. Utopian ideals are constantly expressed through art, literature, religion, philosophy and science as people endeavour for better lives.

Join your union: https://www.artistsunion.scot/

Looking back: Ghosts of the Past

Explore the Scottish diaspora in the United States through my series of limited edition prints from my "Ghosts of the Past" series available exclusively online in my shop. 

This series of paintings dives into Scotland's history and culture as it relates to the Southern United States. Explore genealogy, poetry, and painting to gain a feeling of this moment in time. 

Whether you're Scottish, American, or neither, these paintings explore the immigrant experience and provide you with a unique insight into the lives and stories of those who made their way either through choice or clearance across the Atlantic to begin again.

"You can't make them say the old familiar words their mouths move in different ways"

This limited edition giclée is printed locally using lightfast, archival quality EPSON UltraChrome HDX pigment inks on 310gsm archival smooth cotton rag paper. This print will be signed and numbered in pencil. The print is A3 sized/11.7×16.5" Edition of 50  

Each print will be packed with a backing board inside a clear plastic sleeve and then placed inside a non-bendable mailer and shipped with care through the Royal Mail.

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"There is too much space here and always of the wrong kind"

This limited edition giclée is printed locally using lightfast, archival quality EPSON UltraChrome HDX pigment inks on 310gsm archival smooth cotton rag paper. This print will be signed and numbered in pencil. The print is A3 sized/11.7×16.5" Edition of 50 

Each print will be packed with a backing board inside a clear plastic sleeve and then placed inside a non-bendable mailer and shipped with care through the Royal Mail.

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"You are of the land you left behind, you built the land that will remain a stranger"

This limited edition giclée is printed locally using lightfast, archival quality EPSON UltraChrome HDX pigment inks on 310gsm archival smooth cotton rag paper. This print will be signed and numbered in pencil. The print is A3 sized/11.7×16.5" Edition of 50    

Each print will be packed with a backing board inside a clear plastic sleeve and then placed inside a non-bendable mailer and shipped with care through the Royal Mail.

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"You see the faces of the forgotten and lost as shadows dance around your children" This limited edition giclée is printed locally using lightfast, archival quality EPSON UltraChrome HDX pigment inks on 310gsm archival smooth cotton rag paper. This print will be signed and numbered in pencil. The print is A3 sized/11.7×16.5" Edition of 50    

Each print will be packed with a backing board inside a clear plastic sleeve and then placed inside a non-bendable mailer and shipped with care through the Royal Mail.

Shop

Rest in Power

At a march and rally for Scottish independence in 2019

I was lucky to have Pat Bremner in my corner and in my life. Pat was a dedicated arts and culture lover and an engaged independence supporter. Perhaps more importantly to me personally, Pat was beyond loving and thoughtful when she welcomed me into her family with openness and care. I will always be grateful for the inclusion I felt in her company. 

We enjoyed films and lunch dates in the city, political marches and rallies, a bit of "Call the Midwife" back in the day and of course genealogy and "Who do you think you are." She took me to Women for Independence meetings. We visited the House of Records, the National Library and genealogy societies always looking for information on my "brick wall" which Pat invested an incredible amount of time in helping me try to tear down. I could tell her with excitement about new genealogy discoveries and knew she would be excited too. She took me to Holyrood Palace and hosted a Scottish Night at her house to immerse me in the culture. Quiz games were hosted over delivered Chinese food and laughs and chats about anything and everything were commonplace pre-pandemic. Flowers, plants, cards, and thoughtful gifts for special occasions and just because pepper my memories.

She was a champion of my work attending most exhibitions and open studios if they were accessible. She was an avid collector and patron. She was invested in me as an artist but also as a person unconditionally and her love and compassion meant the world.

Her last present to me was a big teacup with a painting of the poet Maya Angelou on it and a quote by her that reads, "If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be."

Thank you Pat for loving and seeing me, and for all you gave to the world with your bright heart and compassionate spirit. You are deeply missed. 

See you later...

The Crossing
mixed media on canvas 20x20"
Megan Chapman 2004
private collection

My birthday was on Monday, March 6th. I turned 51. I am writing this post well after the fact. I remember it was a bright sunny day - one of the first days that it felt like spring was actually going to come at last. I wore a bright daffodil yellow coloured cardigan. 

I started the day by knowingly visiting someone very special to me for the last time. It was a beautiful and easy conversation and everything was said that needed to be. I marvelled at their strength, boldness, unwavering kindness, and the comforting nature that they put out into the world on that day and all days, even though they hadn't been dealt the best of hands. 

I said "I love you, see you later..." as I walked out the door. We both knew I would not. 

In a seemingly split reality, across town, a couple of dear friends were waiting for me for a birthday lunch. I cried at the dining room table when I arrived and shared the power and wonder I had just witnessed. We then enjoyed our bowls of homemade chilli around the table. I was grateful for the kindness and a place to land. 

Theo took a turn and the rest of the week was a blur.

Consider this the hint of the century

Oh, life... (cue the R.E.M song) 

There was no Tuesday Studio Video Visit this week and this might barely count as a blog (no, it counts). 

On Sunday I went for a walk towards Cramond with my pal James, on Sunday night Edinburgh (and much of the UK) was treated to the Northern Lights and in the city with all the light pollution that is a big deal. Here's a picture I took from the wee beach across the road. It was reassuring to know these dancing colours were out there in the sky over the north sea. 

I don't remember much about Monday and on Tuesday, Theo spent the whole day at the vet on IV fluids. I didn't talk to Jennifer as we usually do that day but I did talk to another creative dynamo about a possible environmentally friendly collaboration/commission project. More on that hopefully in the near future. 

On Wednesday, I shared some older works from my Artwork Archive (pictured above) on social media, trying to do a bit of creative record-keeping. I wrote:

"Do you live with some of these pieces? PLEASE LET ME KNOW - there is a wee comment icon at the top of each painting that will easily send me a message. *I'd like to take it a step further, if you can remember how you acquired the painting that would be grand.* And if you don't live with these paintings - enjoy looking back at these various series of my work from long ago. PS. If you used to live with the painting and sold it - passed it on etc. I would love to know that too. Here is the link if you would enjoy looking back at some of my older works and of course if you happen to live with one or more of these pieces or if you used to, please let me know." Click this link to view: https://www.artworkarchive.com/rooms/megan-chapman/ea4e5a

I think it was also on Wednesday that I moved my schedule around to accommodate the second part of the Scottish Artists Union Rep training that will start up again next Thursday. As you may recall last year I took part in Union Rep training and really enjoyed it and I look forward to completing the training so I can be of service to my fellow union members and art workers in the community. 

Thursday came and went and today I enjoyed a long chat with my dear friend and fellow artist Adelaide Shalhope. We have been enjoying talking about art for about 3 years now. I always feel better after talking to Adelaide. Always uplifted and inspired - we have expansive talks - leaving few stones unturned. Check out her work - I absolutely love it. 

There is a lot going on in the background of my life just now and I am holding many emotions. Spring is here, with new beginnings and flowers and also forks in the road. Sending love to all beings navigating this life.

Oh, and I was told to let you know that if you are in the UK it is free shipping weekend on T-shirts and Totes from my shop! This means that customers can get free UK shipping on all orders in my shop from 9am on Friday to midnight on Sunday. Get yours now!

https://gutlessapparel.teemill.com/

PS. Monday is my birthday. Feel like buying me a coffee in celebration? Go here :) Thanks!