Online Studio Sale & Sunday Open Studios

My Annual Online Studio Sale is happening now. I am thrilled that patrons are picking up some new pieces for their collections. Many of the selections continue to support @bikes4refugees as well. So that's a win-win. In the past month, we have been able to donate £195 from the sale of art to the deserving charity. Thank you! 

My portraits are also available for sale. There has been a renewed interest in them so go have another look. 

If you are in or around Edinburgh, the studio will be open to the public from 11:30 to 4:30 on the 10th of December (Sunday) at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street, Leith. Find me in studio G23 for Fine Art, Prints, and Commissions. Our studios are also open by appointment.

These artists and makers will have their studios open on the 10th:
@megan.chapman.artist
@aoife_in_leith
@kategeorgedesign
@preciousmetalsworkshop
@cam_life_designs
@felicityinkpen
@solencollet
@lostmaprecords

I hope to see you in person and or online this weekend. Thanks for your support and enthusiasm for my work.

Open Studios! Join us!

 

Join us for Open Studios at The Out of the Blue Drill Hall! Several resident artists and makers will have their studios open from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm on Sunday, December 3rd and Sunday the 10th, during the Christmas Market.

I will have loads of small original works for sale to benefit Bikes for Refugees - Scotland SCIO that you can view in the flesh and purchase. I will also have never before seen works created this year that I can't wait to share with you! See you in Studio G23. 

These artists and makers will have their studios open

@megan.chapman.artist
@aoife_in_leith
@mairimacsweendesigns
@catherinegiselleart
@kategeorgedesign
@preciousmetalsworkshop
@cam_life_designs
@felicityinkpen
@remodecollective
@solencollet
@lostmaprecords

Here's a wee sneak peek of my part of the studio in the form of the Tuesday Studio Video Visit.

 

Hope to see you there! Good luck to all my peers. I see you. 

Ask questions, raise hell, and look ugly doing it.

Well, last week's post went down a storm. Thank you to all who read it here on my blog and across my social media channels. It was good to hear from so many of you who felt the same way. It was illuminating in who and in how folks responded. And it made me realise a few things. 

The artists who are worried about adding to the glut, really don't need to be. Because you are not. It is just like us to think that we are though, but again - we are not. Do not make more space for the glut fillers by removing yourself and your skilled and thoughtful work.

Do not disappear. Plant your feet, broaden your shoulders and link up. Find each other, protect your art, and advocate for yourself and your true peers.  

T A K E. 

U P. 

S P A C E.

Be raw, unfinished, dirty, and sick. Ask questions, raise hell, and look ugly doing it. 

This isn't a vanity project, this is our fucking life. This is our art - an extension of ourselves. This isn't a choice. This is blood. 

We don't do it for the bots, or the bloated likes and follows, we have no choice. 

So let's not pretend that we could ever fit into an algorithm.

Show up like we did before the world's stage was in everyone's back pocket. 

Find your true kin and give them your time and attention. Find yourself.

Your work is too good to doubt or to hide. Show them how it is done - your way. 

See you there.

Make a new side

I have been awake for hours in the dark of the early morning. When the world is quiet, I get my best thinking done. My ribs are sore from coughing. Just as I had finally rebuilt my stamina and health from having covid in the late summer, I caught another virus last week. 

I have been working hard, and now I have a few days to rest and regroup. Perhaps even to think about my art. 

In a chat with one of my dear friends, who is also a painter, I wrote: 

"I am pretty down on art. Since the height of the pandemic, my thoughts on art haven't been the same. I really need to have a big think about this. This is a discussion that I really need to have and figure out.

I feel more removed from the making of my art, the importance of my art, the selling of my art, or even the sharing of my art than ever before. I think this is okay - I think this means there is a big restructuring going on.

You know that whole "not going back to normal" thing - well, I can't make art the way I did, or why I did. But I also can't figure out the new way either.

I do know how important art is for my health, well-being, and my sense of self.  And I do miss my regular studio practise. I am working on it... I have got to keep talking about this until I understand it and come out the other side or make a new side..."

I am not alone in these feelings. That is why I am sharing them here with you, dear reader. If you show up here and actually read my words or look at my work - clicking away from my social media to come to this old clunky blog that is now 16 years old, then you are a dear friend too, and you deserve to know my thoughts. I feel I can trust you with them. 

At this time of year, I should be painting small affordable works, getting more affordable prints made to sell, or promoting the fact that my studio is going to be open during the first two Sundays in December (it is - but more on that next time). 

The way artists work today is so different. It seems we are adrift in a sea of products and a tidal wave of fellow artists, and many of us are doing all the things that we didn't want to do when we started out. That is if we are still "lucky enough" to be doing this work at all. 

Lloyd Dobler springs to mind: “I don't want to sell anything, buy anything, or process anything as a career. I don't want to sell anything bought or processed, or buy anything sold or processed, or process anything sold, bought, or processed, or repair anything sold, bought, or processed.”

 - Lloyd Dobler (played by John Cusack, in the film Say Anything)

In these capitalist conditions, everything starts to look the same - homogenised. I don't want to add to this glut, yet I also feel disappointed when my work fails to find its audience. I am caught in a web of my own design (I didn't design it, but who wants to mention capitalism twice in one paragraph). So the complicated feelings and strain of creating new work continue and I feel like I am sitting at the dinner table being grilled by Diane's father, "So what are your plans for the future?" 

Perhaps I should have pursued kickboxing...

Safe as houses

Safe as houses

30x22"/ 76.2x55.8cm

Mixed media 

640gsm smooth fabriano artistico paper

Megan Chapman 2023

Hello, Dear Readers, Skimmers, Browsers, Lurkers and Clickers - 

This person (above) showed up on Monday. I was feeling the deep need to give some time and attention to something creative and expressive, so this is what came of that. I was surprised by the stir she caused over on my FB Art Page. I am always surprised by the portraits. Maybe we all are. Can you believe it was around this time last year that I had my exhibition, Declarations, Divinations, and Whispers? 

You can see all of those portraits again HERE.

And of course, my special sale continues to help out Bikes for Refugees. There are plenty of affordable original pieces of my art on offer with 40% being donated to help them rebuild after a recent break-in. Thanks to my patrons who have supported me, and Bikes for Refugees so far by shopping my sale. You can also donate to them directly and skip the art. 

Go have another look!

I don't know about you, but I am feeling kind of worn out and blue as the nights are drawing in and news of the world is decidedly grim. I plan to make myself some hot chocolate, curl up under the duvet, and rest. Sending love and care out into the world. I hope you can come up with a soothing plan for yourself. 

Thank you for being here. The world needs you and the gifts you bring. Please believe that. 

Finding Centre

Finding centre

Mixed Media on Paper

30 x 30 cm

£175.00

The Dark Anchor (number one)

Mixed Media on Paper

30 x 30 cm

£175.00

The wind is an ocean

Mixed Media on Paper

30 x 30 cm

£175.00

Hello Dear Readers, 

There are now 21 pieces available in my special sale for Bicycles for Refugees. I am so thankful that 5 small works have sold in the £40-55 price range.

With the five small sales, we have been able to donate £95 to Bikes for Refugees to help rebuild a little of what was lost in their recent burglary. Thank you to my lovely patrons in Scotland, England, and the United States for your support.  

There are 9 pieces still available in this most affordable price (£40-55) range. There are 6 pieces available in the £175-195 price range with instalment/payment plans available. And finally, there are 6 pieces available in the £250-295 price range, also with payment plans available. 

These are all original pieces of art, not prints. They are all signed, dated, and titled on the back. All but 3 (see above works on paper) pieces are either mounted/matted and ready to pop into a standard 8x10" frame or professionally framed and ready to hang on the wall. Free shipping in the UK. For any other destinations, the buyer pays for shipping through a separate invoice. 

I want you to live with original art. I always offer a good portion of my work at these more affordable prices so that more folks have the opportunity to enjoy my original work. I have done this for over the past two decades and I have often used my art to raise funds for things I believe in and support. 

I know it has been tough all over coming out of/living through this extended pandemic, wars, political and economic uncertainty and the cost of living crisis. I know people are making hard choices right now. When you choose to support the arts and organisations such as Bikes for Refugees during times like these it highlights your values, your resilience, and your empathy.

Thank you. 

If you have any questions about the sale or pieces in the sale or perhaps even pieces not in the sale - just hit the message button next to any of the pieces and you can contact me. If you click the purchase button - it just sends me a notification that you are interested in purchasing the piece so that I can then send you an invoice and I can answer any questions then as well. 

Buying art doesn't need to be scary or awkward, it can be warm, easy, and meaningful. I am here to help with this. Until next week, stay warm and cosy - coorie in.

Link to my Special Sale. 40% donated to Bikes for Refugees: 

https://www.artworkarchive.com/rooms/megan-chapman/a6dccc

Donate to Bikes for Refugees Directly:

https://www.bikesforrefugees.scot/sponsors-donors

The special sale continues

Sleep Laughing
Part of my special sale

It's grey and damp as we approach the end of October. The trees are golden with many leaves on the ground with the wind. I am trying to get this written before the weekly studio meeting. I missed the last two.

My special autumn sale continues. I have added 12 new pieces to the sale since last week. I added more of my small original mounted works on paper at the more affordable price of £40. £16 from each of those sales goes to bikes for refugees.

I have also added more of my framed original works as well at £195, £250, and £295. These works can be purchased on a 3-month instalment plan and that is clearly marked on the sale site. So if you looked at my sale last week, please look again. 

40% of all sales will be donated to Bikes for Refugees. 

I recorded a Tuesday Studio Video Visit this week as well. I have missed recording our visits - I hope you enjoy it. I talk a bit about the sale and the important work that Bicycles for Refugees does. 

What a dance it was
Part of my special sale

That's all I have for you this week. I need to head out the door soon. I hope you are well, happy and inspired wherever you are, and if you are not - tomorrow is a new day. I know it's hard out there. Let's start small with ourselves, then our communities, and then may it expand outward to all beings. Keep fighting. I am thankful for you. 

Until next week, take care. 

Autumn Special Benefit Sale: Bikes for Refugees Scotland

SPECIAL SALE

As many of you know Bikes for Refugees - Scotland SCIO is one of my favourite charities and I have raised funds for them in the past through the sale of my art. Unfortunately, they have been robbed and need our help! I have organised this special wee sale to hopefully raise some funds. It's a great opportunity to buy some of my art and support them at the same time.

Bikes for Refugees is a brilliant charity that provides free donated and serviced bikes and all the gear needed for New Scots refugees. I am so disheartened that they have been robbed after all the good work they continue to do for our communities. I have already made a small personal donation and encourage you to do the same but if you want my art and to help them - then this sale is for you!

These original paintings and drawings have the added benefit of being mounted and ready to pop into a frame or already framed and ready to hang on the wall. They are all signed and titled on the back. These pieces are all value-priced for this great cause and this includes free shipping in the UK.

40% of the sale of each piece will be donated to Bikes for Refugees to help them recover from this devastating robbery. Bank transfers and PayPal are accepted. Payment plans are available for more expensive pieces if desired. Just say the word! Click the purchase or message button next to the piece to start the conversation. Here is the direct link for the sale. Feel free to share: https://www.artworkarchive.com/rooms/megan-chapman/a6dccc

Also if you have had your eye on another one of my paintings not included on this sale page, please reach out and let me know and perhaps we can make arrangements to include it. 

Thank you - Megan

Donate to Bikes for Refugees Directly: https://www.bikesforrefugees.scot/sponsors-donors

These are all included in the SALE

My favourite kind of beauty

I went for a walk yesterday and everywhere I looked was beautiful. Aged, decaying, and run down - my favourite kind of beauty. The light was from the past and the golden leaves, the old doors, cobbles, and wynds were singing to me. The pavements held me, and the sound of the trees in the wind cushioned my steps. 

We are holding you. We are here for you. We are with you now. 

I looked up to the sky, I looked down at my feet, step after step. I looked at the light and breathed - looked into the wind and felt, looked up again into the trees and tears met my eyes.

I hear the small birds in the morning now, not the seagulls. The swans and signets have done themselves proud, their family intact and almost grown as they glide along the water in the sun. 

I congratulate them. 

I walk on, and the leaves glisten in the water. I snap a picture. 

We are holding you. We are here for you. We are with you now.

Make sure that you are sure

Well, hell. 

I am tired. 

But I can feel the edge of inspiration in the sun and the wind. 

I came across some art I created a while back when I was cleaning up my computer files. It reminded me of something that I am probably missing. 

I am also listening to a song that pulled me towards something too. 

Something = painting and that particular restless energy tempting me to come back after too long away. 

And then of course I took myself out to see Stop Making Sense on Saturday which was invigorating, to say the least. (And a whole lot of something)

I also took myself out to a demonstration against funding cuts to the arts that ended with a coffee in a secret garden with a colleague/new friend.

Then I joined a renters union. So this week has been a bit intense. 

Culture. Social action. New friends. Important conversations. Work.

To balance all this out, I made "the good" vegetable soup, enjoyed a couple of breakfasts that included spinach and mushrooms and walked in different neighbourhoods. I also bought a Vogue magazine. A magazine! What a luxury in the days of screens - especially one that is filled with wearable art and such weirdness. 

The sun is shining. Soon, I will head to the studio for the weekly meeting of the studio mates there. We will see what ideas we can hatch. 

Take care until next week and keep fighting. The world needs you and the gifts you bring.

Capture the light

Morning Sun 1952 - painting Edward Hopper

I am stuck here wordless. 

I was videoless this week as well. 

After last week's activity comes this week's pause, this week's work, and this week's riding of the wave.

But there is a beam of sunshine on my hands and there is music in the air. I had a nice lunch and good snacks. I am wearing a new (to me) crisp white oversized button-up shirt from a charity shop. I can see clouds moving quickly from my window. I have packages coming my way and a stray cat who visits me. 

It's not bad or good - it's just life. 

When we look at a painting by Hopper we don't feel too bad about things. We don't judge the space in the room or the lone woman. We like the feeling. We celebrate it. Perhaps we can celebrate those days in real life too. Or just soak up the space, the light, the feeling. Celebrate is too strong. We can just be in the space without judgment and without wanting to move on too fast. 

Autumn is good for this, the need for hibernation is starting to filter in around the edges. It's okay to put on your shoes and go for a walk or just sit still and capture the light. 

Until next week, keep fighting and then take a nap. And if you live in Scotland sign this petition.

Thank you.  

Autumn is for dancing

A Closer Look: September 2023

Well hello, my beautiful readers,

It's Friday and I have had two cups of coffee and the sky is featureless and grey. I am listening to a fantastic old song on repeat (but of course). Later, I will walk over to the studio and hang out with my fellow artists in our exhibition, A Closer Look. You will know from previous blogs and social media posts that our show is ending on Saturday the 23rd at 5 p.m. So if you are a local reading this and even thinking about how you might like to see it in person - just get up and go (my blog can wait).

Oh, Autumn, I am mostly enjoying your rain, wind, grey, your dappled light through leaves still green but also turning yellow and falling. I am still jazzed about your autumn energy and of course the return to my beloved real coffee. It just tastes better in the fall.

I am not painting right now but I am working, learning, and dancing. Loads of dancing to the fantastic old songs. 

Autumn is for returning to our homes within.

I dreamt of a painting last night, a new painting that I might paint. A whole idea for a series in a dream. I love that when it happens - it is a rare gift.

So on that note, I will share one more promo video of the exhibition and get ready to go. Thank you for being here and for your support. Keep fighting.

A Closer Look Continues

A selection of my small framed works on canvas as part of A Closer Look

The exhibition was installed on Tuesday and is always the case - the artwork of the resident and affiliated artists of the drill hall clicked into place like a puzzle. With over 16 participating artists, there is a great selection of work on display. We had a lovely wine reception on Wednesday night and we enjoyed some tunes and some banter on the rainy evening. Thanks to everyone who came out to support us.

Besides the work on the walls and in the jewellery case, we also have a selection of prints, cards, and even some small originals available for purchase towards the back of the exhibition at our sales table. So do make sure to have a rummage through the racks so you don't miss some bargains.

I love the strength and variety of my peers' work on show together. It's been so great for us to get to know each other better over these last two exhibitions. It feels more like a proper community of artists currently and that is a great feeling.

The video above is a quick guided tour and the video below is a super quick jazzy taster. Remember though if you are local and able, nothing is better than seeing the show with your own eyes. 

A Closer Look
Wednesday 13th - Saturday 23rd September (Not Sunday) 

The Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street, Leith EH6 8RG

Participating artists include: (Follow on Instagram)
@megan.chapman.artist
@aoife_in_leith
@catherinegiselleart
@felicityinkpen
@danmurrayartist
@jesscrisp1
@needle__bow_by_miss_modeuse
@elainewilsonvisualart
@mairimacsweendesigns
@thecityworkshop
@kategeorgedesign
@preciousmetalsworkshop
@remodecollective
@timbremnerart
@i.am.abi.art
@solencollet

Thanks for your support - until next week, go see some art and keep fighting! 

Exhibition news! A Closer Look

Poster artwork by Kate George Design
Printed by Outoftheblueprint

A Closer Look 
Wednesday 13th - Saturday 23rd September 

Hours: 10am-5pm

Opening Reception Wednesday 13th of September from 6-8pm

Join us for drinks and nibbles

36 Dalmeny Street, Leith EH6 8RG

Following the success of Outside + In in May, the talented studio artists of the Out of the Blue Drill Hall have joined forces again to bring you, A Closer Look. You are guaranteed a friendly welcome and a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy paintings, drawings, prints, illustrations, jewellery, photography, mixed media works, textile pieces and more. There will be art for all to enjoy as we invite you to take a closer look. 

Participating artists include: (give these artists a follow on Instagram)

• Megan Chapman
• Aoife in Leith
• Catherine Giselle
• Felicity Inkpen
• Dan Murray
• Jessica Crisp
• Needle Bow
• Elaine Wilson
• Mairi MacSween Designs
• Tamar Whitson
• Kate George Design
• Precious Metals Workshop
• Remode Collective
• Tim Bremner
• Abi Lewis
• Solen Collet

Feels like September

This busted chair feels like September

Hello, Dear Readers, 

Well, there is no denying that people are fascinated with AI. Last week's blog proved popular and outranked several of my recent posts.  

I won't be using AI this week and I am happy to be sitting here in front of my computer listening to music and contemplating which thoughts to share with you. This studio blog is part of my art practice and after sixteen years, it's part of my life - even if and when the "robots" can do it better. 

It's September and the tea is still tasting good as the light starts to shift and the darkness shows up faster than I would like. For the blog this week, I thought a cultural roundup was in order. I used to do this back in the day - share the things that were inspiring, teaching, and or reminding me of who I am or who I want to be. 

Let's see: 

Podcasts: 

Working Class History: 

I just listened to E21-24: WCH Crime: The Columbia Eagle Mutiny - "about the hijacking of a ship full of napalm by two anti-war US sailors during the Vietnam war." I thought this was well done and I enjoyed listening to Alvin Glatkowski tell his amazing story. I enjoyed learning about something I knew nothing about. 

I am currently listening to another podcast produced by Working Class History. I just started E27-29: Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners - "about the young LGBT+ people who transformed the workers’ movement supporting the UK strike of coal miners in 1984-5." Give them a listen! Our world is filled with such courageous people creating change sometimes at great personal cost. I am thankful for them.

For a bit of fun, I also enjoyed listening to "Who Robs A Banksy?" A six-part series revolving around a true character by the name of Andy Link."In 2004, he kidnapped one of Banksy’s pieces of art in broad daylight from the middle of central London, and held it to ransom." You will have to listen to hear how it all plays out.

Books: 

America Over the Water by Shirley Collins. I read this earlier in the summer and really enjoyed learning about Shirley Collin's role in helping Alan Lomax get all those Southern recordings. If you are in Edinburgh - I picked my copy at Good Vibes in Leith - a super friendly record and book shop. They have great incense too. Check them out!

HELLSANS by Ever Dundas. You might not think that a story about a typeface that causes grotesque sickness in some and euphoria in others set in a dystopian future would be the book that would offer me solace as I slowly recovered from COVID-19, but you would be wrong. I clung to this book for three solid days. I badly needed to disappear from my reality and into another and Ever made that easy. This book also changed the way I relate to technology and helped me to explore some of my beliefs about myself and where I fit into this world. Reading HELLSANS reminded me of myself at 16 staying up all night eating saltine crackers and salsa while devouring Alan Moore's The Watchmen. Thank you, Ever. 

Occupy! Occupy! Occupy!: A People's History of Occupation. This 36-page comic book helped get me acquainted with the occupations that have taken place in Scotland from 1940-2021. That's an amazing feat to capture in 36 pages! What a great resource directly from the voices that took part. This is really well done and I highly recommend picking up a copy. A bargain at just a fiver! Solidarity!

BADASS HABITS by Jen Sincero. Oh no, a self-help book - who let this one in here?! Whatever - I read it and I followed along for 3 weeks as it prompted and well, it helped me. Some of it was good and some of it was yucky but it did help me figure out a few things. So, maybe it will help you.

Films: (A bit of a theme here)

Matewan
Salt of the Earth
Norma Rae
The Take
At the River, I Stand
Sunset Boulevard

TV:

Heartstopper

Only Murders in the Building

Reservation Dogs

Dark Winds

Music:

I listen to Dave Brubeck every morning while I eat my porridge. This song comes on first (I mean if that doesn't set the tone - I don't know what does).

Currently, I listen to Christian Löffler's Haul on repeat while I am out walking. You know I am listening to a variety of music all the damn time - so I am not going to get into all that. :) Some of you, even have access to my playlists - I know you are long overdue an update. Thanks for your patience.

I hope you have enjoyed this culture round-up. I had to take a break from writing it to walk over for a wee meeting about an upcoming group exhibition at the Drill Hall later this month with my studio peers. See, I fit a bit of art talk in there. I will tell you all about it next week - so you can put it in your diaries and join us.

Thanks for popping by the old studio blog. If you enjoy my blog or appreciate these particular recommendations consider leaving me a tip. Please share what is inspiring you in the comments. Until next week, keep fighting! 

AI explains things to me

Scales are not tipped in our favour
Megan Chapman 
2021

I asked AI to please discuss late-stage capitalism in relation to artists on Instagram. 

—

Late-stage capitalism has had a significant impact on artists, particularly those on platforms like Instagram. On one hand, social media has provided artists with unprecedented opportunities to showcase their work, connect with audiences, and gain exposure. Platforms like Instagram have allowed artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers and reach a global audience, potentially leading to increased recognition and economic opportunities.

However, late-stage capitalism on platforms like Instagram has also brought challenges for artists. The emphasis on metrics such as likes, followers, and engagement can create a competitive environment that prioritises popularity over artistic integrity. Artists may feel pressured to conform to market trends or create content solely for the purpose of generating attention and engagement, potentially compromising their creative vision.

Moreover, the monetisation of artistic content on Instagram can be complex. While some artists successfully generate income through sponsored posts, collaborations, or selling their artwork directly, many struggle to make a sustainable living. The platform's algorithms and advertising-driven nature can make it difficult for artists to gain visibility or receive fair compensation for their work.

Late-stage capitalism's influence on Instagram also highlights issues of exploitation and commodification. Some artists may face the challenge of their work being copied, plagiarised, or exploited without proper credit or compensation. Additionally, the pressure to constantly produce and share content can lead to burnout and the devaluation of artistic labour.

In summary, late-stage capitalism's impact on artists on Instagram is a complex and multifaceted issue. While social media platforms provide new opportunities for exposure and connection, they also bring challenges related to commercialisation, competition, exploitation, and the potential dilution of artistic expression.

*It's not lost on me that the AI has most likely plagiarised and cobbled together a lot of other artists and writers' words on this subject. We also have to consider the biases of the programmers. However, I thought it was an interesting exercise and it is a subject I spend a lot of time thinking about.*

Remember folks, often exposure is code for exploitation. Just Say No! Until next week, keep fighting, and I will bring you new words and images from my own brain.

Thank you for being here.