Well, here we are again, my annual year in review post. I am already struggling to sit still and focus (it has taken me 2 days to finally get it done). This is an important post for me to write so I can actually see and feel what I did. As I always say, this post is more for me than for you so if you reach the end, then gold star all the way! I feel like this year's post may be quite a bit shorter than some. My relationship with my art has changed so much post pandemic. Like many of you, I feel like I have been navigating a lot of complex experiences and many of the things that used to push or motivate me ring a bit more hollow or just don't work like they used to. So much in my life has changed in these last few years and the way I navigate it is changing too. So let's begin.
Job: I am the Rep Coordinator & Caseworker for the Scottish Artist Union. I completed the SAU Rep Training Program Obair 1, 2, and 3 in 2022 and 2023, concluding with the Rep Residential in Crail in March of this year. I have been working as a Rep with the Union since June 2023 and in June 2024, I became a member of staff in my current role.
It's an honour to help our members navigate the challenges that we all face across Scotland's visual and applied arts sector. I feel so fortunate to do work that is important, meaningful, and within my field, as part of a trade union. I also feel lucky to work alongside my union peers in the rep team, staff and learning teams, and our volunteer executive. We are a small team, working part time and mostly remotely while pursuing our own art practices and other projects. If you are a Scottish artist and haven't yet joined the SAU, please consider joining your union and getting involved! We are stronger together!
SAU and Related Learning Programmes/Events Attended:
Negotiation Training:Francis Shennan and Joshua Becker
Structurally F–cked: Juliet Jacques in conversation with Industria
When what you get is not enough:SAU’s Political Education Pilot Event
Funding for Artists Open Meeting: Applied Arts Scotland, Engage Scotland, Scottish Artists Union and SCAN
Introduction to The Inklusion Guide: A kickass guide to making literature events accessible to disabled people: Julie Farrell
Cyber Security Knowledge Refresher: Craig Steele, Digital Skills Education
Improving Effective Voice, Equality, Fair Work and Health and Safety Rep Course with Scottish Hazards & STUC (the first 2 parts of a 4 part course)
Basic Income for the Arts in Ireland: What have we learned after 20 months: UBI LAB & BASIC Income Ireland
SAU EGM
SAU AGM
Associated Union Actions:
Mass Vigil for Justice for Sheku Bayoh: STUC: Festival Square Edinburgh
Stop the Culture Cuts Demo: Equity: Scottish Parliament.
Art Work: I created a huge overarching body of 307 pieces of work on paper consisting of multiple series from my home studio space. I just looked through them all after another long period of inactivity. I am gobsmacked. You have only seen a fraction of these small works. As they are mostly on very delicate paper I am not always sure how to present them. I can't wait for you to see some of these pieces. They really seem suited for a book or reproductions. This right here is why I write this blog for me. I have been feeling like I have not really given my painting enough of my time and energy this past year. I stand corrected. I feel these are some of the strongest and most personal works I have created in a long while. They are small and they are on paper and many of them feature drawing, writing, and mark making as much as painting and they were all created in my home. Oh, the brain plays tricks.
What I haven't been doing is making them all shiny, presentable, and for sale. I haven't been updating my social media accounts regularly with them either. This year has been about making art for art's sake, the way it was intended. I was able to do this by being supported through my work with the union, a few art sales, my ko-fi patrons, and through other means.
Art Sales: I sold 5 originals to 3 patrons (4 originals on paper and 1 large original canvas). Thank you, Malcolm in Scotland and Jeanne and Jennifer in the United States for supporting my work at the start of the year. I appreciate you more than you can know.
Gallery Representation: For the first time in 20 years, I am not represented by any galleries.I was represented by Solo Gallery in Innerleithen until July of this year but sadly, Kate decided to close up shop. Another loss for the Scottish Art Community, and especially for the Scottish Borders. Best wishes to Kate - a proper gallerist and a joy to work with.
Art Rental: Well, this is some news that I haven't yet shared, so you are hearing it here first and I have buried the lede. One of my large abstract paintings will be appearing in a film! My painting "In the time it takes" will be in California Schemin' - James McAvoy's directorial debut. I am looking forward to seeing the film and we will hopefully be able to catch a glimpse of my painting. Now, I can say my work has been used in television and film!
Art Licensing: I happily accepted a contract with Image Conscious, one of the largest wholesale art suppliers worldwide, they sell exclusively to retailers, art consultants, interior designers, frame and poster shops, speciality shops, and wholesale framers. In business since 1980, their collection is comprised of some of the world’s finest contemporary artists and photographers. You can read all about that here. If you enjoy my Echoes and Memory series, which is still one of my favourites, and you are looking for quality Megan Chapman prints for an office, restaurant, or any interior- then this is a great option. They even offer framing. If you buy the reproductions through Printano - they offer worldwide shipping and you can purchase in your own currency.
Art Exhibitions: I participated in 1 group exhibition at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the space. I also marked an anniversary this year - I have now lived in Scotland for 10 years and I have had my studio at the Drill Hall for 10 years too!
Studio: There were no formal open studios this year at the Drill Hall. I found this very unfortunate, as that is one my favourite parts of having a studio. I miss being able to connect with the public. Regular open studios are also one of the most lucrative ways for artists to make money.
Unfortunately the rent was raised for the studio in December. Currently, I am able to keep my studio due to sharing the space with 2 subletters and the fact that I have 5 regular patrons who graciously support me monthly to offset some of these overhead costs. I know many artists across Scotland are facing this same dilemma currently. Do we stay or do we go? You can read a popular post I wrote about this issue, here. Home Studio: Thanks to my pal and supporter Annie Milovic for helping me walk home an easel from my studio at the Drill Hall, as well as grab another piece of found furniture off the street and into my flat so that I could create a new home studio space this past year! These 307 !?! pieces would not exist without her kind offer of assistance and a friendly nudge back in January.
Kofi Patrons: Currently,5 amazing women regularly support my work and help me to offset my art business overheads. Thankfully, each month I am supported by Jennifer Libby Fay, Tamsin Haggis, Jennifer Douglas Arbuckle, and Annie Milovic and posthumously by Pat Bremner. Thank you all so much. Thank you also to my three one-off supporters this year, Ash,Kev, and Paul. Consider becoming a regular supporter or just leave me a tip. It all adds up and really makes a difference!
Speaking of supporters, my dear friend and great patron, John Kay died earlier this year. I couldn't bring myself to talk or write about it as it seemed so sudden, shocking, and awful at the time, and honestly it still is. John supported my work, my spirit, and was always good for a laugh, musical comradery, and a funny Billy Idol meme. His passing threw me for a loop in the spring that took me awhile to come out of. I will endeavour to stay free, my friend, but it's a bit harder and less fun without you here. Sending love to all his friends and family who may happen across this post - and especially to his dearest daughter, Kirsty.
Friday Studio Blog: I posted 52 weekly blogs. Thank you for checking in here. At first the posts were mostly selections from my works on paper and then we started to pick up speed towards the end of the year and the words came pouring out. I am proud of some of my writing this past year.
Tuesday Studio Video Visit: Oops! I recorded none! Do I bring these back in 2025 from my new home studio space? Hmm.
Archive: I did manage to update and add some more pieces to my Archive. I will continue to work on this and let you know when it is in tip top shape. There is just so much work - we can see why...
Crail, Fife - SAU Rep Residential (gorgeous and wild - I love Fife)
Innerleithen, Scottish Borders (best vegan haggis pie, among other things) Glasgow (on 3 separate but equally wonderful occasions. I love you, Glasgow) USA (Unbelievably warm - a gorgeous autumn - good luck and godspeed- y'all come visit)
Besides working on my art and my union work, I made time to read a few books, watch films, see Interpol (2 years in a row and for the 8th time!), listen to loads of music (on repeat), walk in nature, meditate, study a bit of Japanese, and enjoyed some local culture with my friends. And I finally made it back to Arkansas (as mentioned above) to spend some quality time with my parents and see a few friends for 3 weeks this autumn.
Note to self: Megan, my dear... You are enough. You do enough. You live enough. You create enough. You are good enough. I am also super proud that you took care of your teeth, had your hearing tested, had your eyes checked and got new glasses, and you took part in that fitness study. You faced fears, you learned, you grew, you grieved, you experienced really dark days as well as unabashed joy and wonder. You maintained and fostered relationships. You said no and you advocated for yourself and others. Thanks for being good to yourself.
__________________
As I did last year, I dedicate this post to my dear friends and patrons who are no longer with us. I have been fortunate to have been seen, understood, and supported by some amazing people and that is a gift that sustains me. Thank you. I will keep fighting and I will stay free.
Love always to my family of charcoal dust near and far and thank you to everyone who has supported my work as an artist and as a person. I couldn't do this without you and I wouldn't want to.
Thanks to everyone for coming to Open Studios on the 3rd and 10th of December. I always love seeing your faces. Thanks especially to my new patrons.
My Annual Studio Sale is Online and happening now. I am thrilled that patrons are picking up some new pieces for their collections. Thank you for supporting my work, it means more to me than you can possibly know.
Many of the selections continue to support Bikes for Refugees as well. So that's extra wonderful. The small paintings that are professionally framed in white tray frames would make an extra special treat for you or a loved one this season. They can be sent in the UK via Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed and get to you or them by 1pm the next day during the week. You can also pick something up in person. My studio is open by appointment. Send me a message if you would like to visit.
Visit Solo Galleryonline and in person for a selection of my available works. They are located in the beautiful Innerleithen, Scottish Borders.
I have been thinking about my art a bit differently over the past couple of weeks and have some new ideas and plans for the future so please stay tuned.
Like what I share or just want to say hello and support all the work I share? Consider buying me a coffee or two. Thank you.
I have good news to share! The painting above, Precipice, just SOLD from the brilliant SOLO gallery in Innerleithen in the gorgeous Scottish Borders! Gallerist, Kate Hayes, messaged me with the good news just a little while ago! Every time Kate messages me with news of a sale, it is a unique thrill because it feels like a real victory for us both in every sense of the word. You may recall I took my work down to Innerleithen soon after Kate opened her new gallery and as luck would have it, the pandemic hit - changing both of our courses. However, Kate stuck with me and I stuck with her and here we are, celebrating another sale! Another painting finds just the right home. Thank you, Kate, and thank you, lovely new patron!! It is always an honour and a delight to have my work chosen and enjoyed.
Kate has a selection of my paintings available to purchase, you can see them here.
In other good news (and this time back in the States) - a lovely friend from my University of Oregon days purchased one of my prints for her daughter's house in Eugene! Her daughter is now enrolled at the U of O. So I am loving this full circle moment! I just sent this one off to the printer this morning, and I am looking forward to seeing it before I sign it and send it on its way!
I have loads of prints and small works to choose from in my online shop. I have a range of sizes and prices to fit most budgets and I can post anywhere. Visit my shop today.
Speaking of print sales, I want to thank Blunt Knife Co. again for carrying my work in their sweet shop. They have recently closed their doors on Thistle Street in Edinburgh, but I look forward to their next incarnation! They were a delight to work with - they sold a couple of my prints and called my work "subversive," so I will always love them for that.
You can find these prints in my online shop too! SHOP
Last but not least, it's FREE POST weekend here in the UK. So, grab a t-shirt or tote from my Teemill shop and look cool while supporting my work and not damaging the planet. YAY! https://gutlessapparel.teemill.com
That's all I have for you this week, I am still in the throws of the covid funk so I am grateful to have some good news to share because honey, this shit is harrrrrrrrrrrrd.
Thank you for being here and spending some of your sunny time with me.
It's positively roastin' here in auld reekie! My niece Elena has been here with me since late Saturday night taking a break from her world travels. It's been great to have her back in Scotland.
I am pleased that I managed to maintain my studio, my Tuesday Studio Video Visit, and now my blog schedule and even did some work with the Scottish Artist's Union this week. I am really happy that I was able to put my studio practice high on the list while still enjoying the sun and some of the sights with Elena. After where I've been lately, this feels like a noteworthy accomplishment.
That's the thing - these things don't need to take a lot of time, just some time and consistency - a promise. Magic happens when you show up even in short bursts.
This is Elena's last full day in the city, so after I write this I am off to jump on a bus and meet her in the wild for a bit more exploring and sunshine.
Now to the art.
Currently, my studio work schedule is Monday, Tuesday and Friday.
I managed to start two new pieces this week and work back into one I started last week. At last count, I think I now have 9 pieces on the go. This is a good feeling. Currently, I am only using materials I already have in the studio - trying to avoid purchasing any new materials for the time being. I am curious how long I can go. I like to set myself a challenge.
a piece from last week that I worked back into that is now finished
Here's the Tuesday Studio Video Visit if you missed it on my other social networks.
In other news, the brilliant Blunt Knife Co. is closing its doors on Thistle Street in Edinburgh so make plans to go by soon and buy one of my prints, pretty please!! Their last trading day is Saturday 15 July. Make Haste! Support them and me!
Available Now at Blunt Knife Co. Edinburgh for £25 each! Get one from the shop before they close!
In other other news, I did some more litter cleanup this week, I highly recommend finding a small area nearby and just cleaning it up - it is amazing how much satisfaction can be felt after working for an hour or less and making a visible difference. A cure for what ails, I tell ya! If you do this - take a before and after picture and message it to me and I will send you a coupon code to save money in my shop. Thank you for making the world a better place.
That's all I have for you this week on the Studio Blog. Be well and enjoy the sun. Thank you for staying the course with me.
My cat Theo isn't doing too well just now which is heavy on my mind and heart. Tonight I observe him and call the vet in the morning if need be and if I don't need to (fingers crossed) I have an appointment on Tuesday morning to learn how to start giving him subcutaneous fluids. Sigh. What a wee champion Theo continues to be.
Let's see what else happened this week in art and life.
On Saturday, I focused on putting my most recent body of portraits all together in one place where patrons can enjoy and easily purchase them. These are the same pieces that made up my Divinations, Declarations, and Whispers exhibition that was held online in December. Now you can find them on my Artwork Archive site. I will be experimenting with having more of my work available in the near future on this platform. I really like the ease of use and point of sale and contact capabilities. If you missed the portraits on my social media accounts, you can check them out here: https://www.artworkarchive.com/profile/megan-chapman
On Saturday night I enjoyed the final 2-hour session of "Art, Work and Power," presented by the Scottish Artists Union. I get so much out of the union courses - always inspiring, empowering, and thought-provoking. I am looking forward to the next courses.
On Monday, I updated my Instagram and Twitter handles to my actual name. So if you follow me on Instagram it is no longer at "ethermaven" but is now: https://www.instagram.com/megan.chapman.artist
Similarly, if you follow me on Twitter at "ethermaven" it is now https://twitter.com/meganchapmanart I have also updated my profile pictures across the board to something a bit more up-to-date as well.
Seems a bit more professional to show up under my actual name and hopefully, it will be better for business as well. It's always a hassle to update those things as you don't realise how many times you share and promote those handles across social media, websites, and such. It felt good to finally take care of it.
On Tuesday, I visited the vet with Theo for blood tests and fluids, had my weekly chat with Jennifer, and then later I made the Tuesday Studio Video Visit. Another wee promo video. I am experimenting with slightly more professional videos and also just taking a wee break from talking on camera. Honestly, I need and want to focus on selling some of the work I have readily available before creating loads more just now for space and financial reasons. So if you missed it, here it is again. Fun fact - I created the discordant and "ethereal" sounds in the backing track as well (Nae worries - I will stick to my day job!) But, hey I am having a SALE in my shop on this specific body of work and if you use code "BUYART" at check out you get 10% off until midnight Sunday. These are mounted and ready to pop in any standard 8x10" frame.
On Wednesday, I met up with my pals Aoife and Meg for lunch in a place in Leith I had never been - eating out in restaurants is still pretty new for me since the pandemic. I think I have sat down to eat in maybe 3 since it all kicked off and 2 times were in the last couple of weeks. It was great to spend time with my friends in a new place and enjoy the food, laughs, and atmosphere. Then I walked back down the walk into the belly of Leith for a wee wander around a favourite old cemetery I had forgotten about. I took a few snaps and enjoyed the area. It was a good day and again I felt gratitude for the community I am a part of and the friendships I have built here. It was a beautiful day with a dash of magic and spring vibes.
The Shore, Leith
Thursday sort of came and went, and here we are, Friday. I will watch and observe Theo tonight and hope for the best. Thanks for swinging by the Friday Studio Blog and checking out all my other stuff. I really appreciate your support and interest. I will produce new work again soon - Theo is a priority for me just now. Sending love and gratitude to all beings. Until next week, keep fighting.
Creating art can be challenging and filled with obstacles. From an artist's block to a lack of inspiration, it is not uncommon for life to get in the way of making your art. With a few simple steps, time, and care, you can get back on track and make the art you have always wanted. Whether it's getting organized, setting goals, or taking a break from your work, there are plenty of ways to overcome these obstacles and find inspiration again.
It's easy to get overwhelmed and feel like you don't know where to start. I am a big fan of taking a break and giving yourself some time away from your work. This will help clear your head and allow you to come back with fresh ideas.
It's also essential to find ways of staying inspired, such as taking yourself out to look at art, listening to music, or watching films that spark creativity. Everyone has days when they feel like they are running out of ideas and inspiration. It's normal and ok to take a break from your work. These ebbs are part of the creative process.
Find ways to re-energize so you can get back on track. Try different non-art-related activities, or take a walk outside - whatever works for you! You may find that giving yourself permission to take a break from the endless cycle of social media promotion will help you come back with new ideas and inspirations.
Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help from others who may have gone through similar experiences or who can offer advice on how to best tackle the challenge.
You could always book a session with an art mentor if you feel stuck while facing a challenge in your work. I offer this service and it is one of my favourite parts of my art practice. I get inspired working with other artists and watching them move forward.
I have been a professional artist for over 27 years, and during this time, I have developed a deep understanding of the creative process. My extensive knowledge and experience have made me highly skilled in identifying problems and offering solutions to help my fellow artists reach their creative goals. Together we can use creative problem-solving and develop strategies and practices to help you move forward.
My dedication to helping others find their voice and unique spark drives me. With my strong background in art, I have the perfect skill set to support artists looking for advice and guidance in their work. My approach is tailored to each individual and their specific needs. Come get unstuck with me!
I offer one-to-one video mentoring with additional email support for artists at a crossroads with their work or feeling overwhelmed by their projects. In-person appointments can also be arranged in my studio in Leith, Edinburgh. You can book a session HERE or send me a messagewith any questions beforehand. I hope to hear from you and work with you soon.
Enjoy a moment of calm and breathe with me on the latest Tuesday Studio Video Visit. Until next week, keep fighting or go take a walk...
Thanks to everyone who waded into my 2022 year-end review blog last week. If you read it last Friday you really deserve a gold star as that was before I went back and edited. I went over it the next morning and made some major edits for ease of reading and clarity so feel free to go back and give it another try if you struggled the first time. As always the practice of writing about the year is helpful to me and allows me to see and experience it differently than just walking through it and not looking back.
So here we are six days into 2023. How are you feeling about it? It seems too soon to judge - it takes some time to shake off the festive period and of course, we are still in the middle of winter. I feel like hibernating a bit longer. I have been for some short walks. I have done a bit of yoga. I have listened to a lot of music and I have thought about what comes next and how I want it to feel and look. It still feels vague and hazy.
I feel like I need to do this art thing differently. Sometimes I think I need to just give up and do something entirely different but I am pretty sure that's not the way forward. I think a combination of things will need to take place. I also just think it is a matter of time. Clarity doesn't happen just because a month, day, or year rolled over. So, I will take a few steps forward, I will try a few things and I will wait and observe and try again. That's pretty much how I have done it all these years and with a lot of help. Ever onwards.
In other news, I created January's playlist for my Ko-fi Supporters.
This month's mix casts a wider net, a worldly and electronic palette/palate cleanser - encouraging us to dream bigger in 2023. Just thinking of all the music we get to listen to is a reason to celebrate!
PS. Did you know that if you are a monthly supporter you get an automatic 10% off items in my shop? It's true! No coupon is needed - the discount is applied automatically.
Sitting in the dark at 9:35 in the morning, it is decidedly grey and rainy. I am about to start writing the year-end review blog - this annual practice daunts me. As I say at the beginning of this post each year, it is more for me than it is for you, so if you make it through this - gold star all the way and thanks.
I feel like this year wasn't that great of an art year for me, so it will be interesting if I am left with a different opinion by the end of this post. I felt very removed from art, in general, this year, very disenchanted and honestly disappointed. If you have been following me for any length of time, you will know that I am a bit of a cheerleader when it comes to art. If you get me talking about art, my passion knows no bounds. I am not sure this is the case anymore, or at least for right now- smack dab in the middle of my life (if I am lucky) and definitely in the middle of my art practice. But let's see how it all pans out after I review it. Deep breath, here we go...
January:
It starts with a hopeful post about "calling forth the magic and getting clear" about a few things as I prepare to turn 50 in March. My studio is not yet running at home or in the Drill Hall for the new year. Next up, I am calling up "the warriors" - this idea of finding the people that understand and support what I am here on the planet to do. I feel like an alien while I come to terms with the grief I have given myself over the decades of being an artist. I write, "I am ashamed that this path leaves me vulnerable to living on a shaky foundation." The blog post resonates with folks. I manage one drawing of a face I like enough to share. I record a video of a mark-making practice rather than my usual Tuesday Studio Video Visit. It also seems to resonate. After talking to many artists about the slow start to the year, I try to reassure others and myself. My advice is to "rest in nature and trust." I meet up with the Abstractionistas (Judith Shaylor and Susan Wilson) for our first meeting of the year to discuss what lies ahead for the group. We plan our first exhibition of the year at Detour Espresso in Marchmont in Edinburgh.
February:
I show a collection of 5 pieces alongside work by Judith and Susan as part of our exhibition, "Awakenings" in Detour. I write, "I love showing art where folks can go to be comfortable and cosy, such as in a coffee shop. Art is a natural part of that equation - we live around art, eat, drink, solve life's mysteries, and share laughs and tears around art."
At this time, I am also really focused on building my archive of older works on Artwork Archive. It's a labour-intensive process and allows me to see just how prolific I have been over the years and what a taskmaster I have been. This awareness creates a shift in how much art I create over 2022. The process also drives home how much work it takes to document, archive, and care for the art. How much information is involved in each piece, and how expensive this process is. Seeing all of this information shifts my views on the creative process. Honestly, it's all overwhelming.
While the exhibition at Detour is fine, I miss the in-depth discussions around art with patrons and fellow artists. The type of discussions I would have at open studios and exhibitions back in the states. Communicating about the work is central to why I make it (as many of you have gathered from this blog which is now over 15 years old, along with my Tuesday Studio Video Visits, now 5 years old). As a workaround to this desired communication, I filmed my first picture-in-picture Tuesday Video Visit. I talk more in-depth about the work I am showing at Detour.
Besides this, I continue my data entry on my archive. I write, "as I go through the archive, I am reminded of conversations, emails, chats, faces, and memories of everyone who has bought and supported my work."
At the end of February, I enjoy a delightful studio visit with two new patrons who purchase two of my works on canvas. My first sales of the year! This is a real boon and very much needed. You can relive my joy by watching my Tuesday Studio Video Visit again. You will sense how necessary these face-to-face conversations with like-minded individuals and supporters are to me, my work, and my process.
The world seems heavy - the war in Ukraine is front-page news. I try to notice the good things. I turn 50. I am a bit pissed (not about getting older - I know I am one of the lucky ones). I am pissed about everything else. It's been two years since the pandemic began for many people. Rather than summarise it - you can read what I wrote here.
Later in the month, spring starts to bloom. I write, "What "good" and "bad" art can do - it can change us, it can shake us and make us remember. Art wears a groove so deeply while it partners with our memories and melds with our emotions that perhaps we can no longer watch that film, read that book, hang that painting, or listen to that album - it's like sad time travel. But sometimes, we can delve into the magic and feel better. It opens the door and welcomes us home."
So while I am writing at this time, what I am not doing, is painting. By the end of the month, I take myself out for an old-school artist's date. I am reintegrating into the world after staying in for almost 2 years during the height of the pandemic. I walk through the city centre: I see art, I see friends, I visit charity shops. I write, "If I am going to re-engage with this world again, I want to do it as closely aligned with my values as I can. I emerge changed, and I am more certain of what I value. I am paying attention and taking notes."
I am enjoying the Scottish Artists Union educational programs online. I write, "there are a lot of people out there thinking radical thoughts and working for the betterment of us all -this excites me." I encourage everyone to join a union. Again, you will notice what I am not doing... painting.
April:
I start the month by writing, "My head is spinning from everything I have learned in the past 3 weeks with the Scottish Artists Union. I took a 12-hour course, "Let's get organised! A 101 for Organising the Arts." This course was meaningful and important for me and helped clarify my thoughts. After the course ends, I am asked if I would be interested in participating in a pilot scheme for a Fair Work Representative development training course starting the following week. "The training will cover the role of reps; an overview of Fair Work; Advocacy and Organising; and Equalities." I am delighted!
Around this time, I go on a field trip with the Abstractionistas to the Dalkeith Palace to see the room we will be showing our work in for the Inception exhibition in May. I am dealing with anaemia (again) and a few other garden-variety ailments. I continue my union training, mentoring a brilliant artist and not painting. I write, "I'm still not painting much this year - and it's already April. I am not sure I have ever gone this long without creating new work. I think I am okay with it. My previous work was fueled by internalised capitalism and built upon a foundation of doubt and fear. The good news is that I don't have to work like that anymore." I continue writing my studio blog, creating Tuesday Video Visits, being involved with the Abstractionistas, union work and mentoring. More than enough.
I visit my studio at the Drill Hall a couple of times this month and give it a good once over and enjoy being there, cleaning it up and making space - getting organised. I visit a three-woman show, buy some original art from Esther Donaldson and start enjoying the spring. I enjoy walks, yoga, aerobics, and meditation. The Abstractionistas take down the exhibition at Detour and prepare for the Dalkeith palace exhibition. I do more studio organisation to get ready to start sharing my studio space with my pal Aoife at the start of May. This is a big step for me to share the studio with another artist. It is a good thing and makes sense financially.
I start (with the help of Jeanne, Barbara, and Maggie) organising an online sale of a selection of works already in Northwest Arkansas.
With my union work firmly in my mind, I write this.
"Dear Artists,
Stand up for yourselves. Stop working for free. Stop underselling your work and yourself. Challenge how the art world functions and who it is set up to benefit. Set boundaries. Understand that exposure doesn't pay the bills. We need to support and encourage each other. We are in the same fight, not in competition. Share your secrets, and let's reach our goals together as a unified front. Get organised.
Don't forget to rest and allow yourself time for joy. Remember what you wanted to express in the first place - you probably won't find it on Instagram. However, you might find it in your heart, your mind's eye, or in the pit of your stomach. Let it out. We can take it.
Love,
Megan"
Later in the month, I start promoting my online Arkansas sale from April 29th to May 13th. This sale brings me a lot of joy and reconnects me to my community back home.
May:
The Inception exhibition opens Friday - Sunday, May 6-8, at the Dalkeith Palace. On the first day of "Inception," I step out to attend my union meeting in a side room. This marked a change for me - the union was growing in importance in my life. In previous times, ducking out of an exhibition would be unheard of. This time, I saw it as progress. The union was paying me for my time - the palace was not (or at least only speculatively).
My online sale back home continues. I write: "Thanks again to my Arkansas patrons and the good folks in Georgia and Louisiana who have purchased works from my special sale. It really warms my heart to hear from you - even just notes of support or a quick hello in reaction to my sales posts on social media and through email. You are a tough act to follow. You must know that when people ask where I am from, I proudly say Arkansas. Your spirit is in my heart and shines through in everything I do."
I am delighted that 5 originals and 4 limited edition prints sold during my special 2-week online sale. I am also thrilled to raise some funds for AbleTalks.
At the end of the month, probably buoyed from my Arkansas sale, I wrote an inspired piece about art and light. I remember really enjoying writing this post for my blog. I had no idea what was about to come next...
June:
Along the John Muir Way
My niece Elena has some time off work and visits Scotland. I invite myself on her holiday, and we walk the entire John Muir Way (Helensburgh to Dunbar) and then some!
This is hands down the highlight of my year, and it still seems like a dream. I write this at the time: "Scotland, you are a magical wonder, and your people are golden. I am so proud to call you home." I needed to get out of Edinburgh and spend some time with Elena laughing and putting one foot in front of the other. The weather was glorious, and I am proud of myself and us.
After completing "the way," I write "it is my daily exercise habits that enabled me to "just go" on the 135-mile (official) John Muir Way (it was 170 miles in total with extraneous walking) over 10 days, spontaneously without too much issue or injury." I find it hard to get back into daily life and miss my niece.
By the end of the month, most women around the world are mad as hell due to Roe V Wade being overturned in the states. This news, along with the continuing war in Ukraine and everything else, is just a bit much...
July:
It's summer, and I am determined to enjoy it. I write, "I don't want to talk about the same old things. I don't want to think about the same old things. I don't want to make the same old things."
Another Abstractionistas exhibition is planned for August. I look for beautiful moments, I keep writing and making my videos, I keep mentoring, my studio mate gets settled in, and I enjoy soup with friends. I create music playlists for the kind patrons that support me each month on Ko-fi.
However, I am still not painting.
I write: "Move forward, take a risk - we need YOU and YOUR work - not their work, not her work or his work, we need you. It's not easy - it's actually really fucking hard, but it is important work. I'll see you there."
During this time, I am having recurring migraines caused by a medication I am taking.
August:
The Abstractionistas "Paper" exhibition opens August 12-14th at the Granton Hub. I show a selection of works that had never been shown before. I sold two small pieces.
A reason to believe
20 x 25 cm
Mixed Media on Paper 2021
Sold
Celebrations remembered
20 x 25 cm
Mixed Media on Paper 2021
Sold
By the end of the month, after a while of not offering prints of my work, I add loads of new designs to my online shop. I offer a range of signed limited and open-editions priced from £20-55. These archival giclee prints are all created locally in a not-for-profit community interest company in Leith. I love having my work reproduced affordably in the community in alignment with my values. https://ko-fi.com/meganchapman/shop
I also started offering a selection of my works on sustainably sourced t-shirts and totes. These had been requested a while back, but August was the month they became a reality, just another way of keeping my work more accessible to a larger audience. Gutless Apparel was born. https://gutlessapparel.teemill.com/
But probably an even more important development was that I returned to my studio at the end of August and started a new series of portraits.
September:
I set a modest schedule of going into the studio every Tuesday and Thursday. I work on portraits on paper and try to work when my studio mate is in. At this same time, I returned to drinking coffee, something I had loved throughout my youth but had quit when I was 21 due to increased anxiety. Now, it seemed coffee was like magic! It was great to get reacquainted with it as I got to know all the faces pouring out of me.
I write after a few weeks of returning to my studio habit: "I am just trying to get back into the habits of showing up, being in the space, and sharing the space with my studio mate who has been there since May. I wasn't expecting any hard or serious work, but then a flood of portraits came forward. I got excited, and suddenly I was expecting things of myself, my work and my time in the studio."
At this time, I received a gift of a collection of lovely canvases from a patron, and I decided to do a large abstract. The queen dies the same day.
I write: "While I create new patterns and schedules, I want to be careful to not return to being the taskmaster I once was. Creating work to prove to you that I do indeed "work." This is leftover programming that no longer serves me but is deeply worn into my brain. I have done a bit more walking in the past week as well - Autumn always seems to be the walking season as I prepare myself for the darker and shorter days.
For my Tuesday Studio Video Visit, I want to try something different and talk about one of my favourite paintings from childhood. Paolo Uccello's "St. George and the dragon."
At the end of September, I painted over the large abstract. "I took the large abstract painting I had done on a gifted to me 100x80cm linen canvas (thanks, patron!) and turned it on its side and then quickly drew these charcoal faces. Red cheeks, white cheeks, wobbly cheeks, eyes getting more impatient and smudged, mouths quick and dirty - that's how I work. I don't have time to waste - paint around the shapes - everything is abstract - see the old painting peeking through. Spirits come forward."
In other news, my contributor copies of LESS #4 produced by Enough Scotland arrived through the letterbox! I am honoured to have my work purchased for print in LESS, where ideas of degrowth are shared across Scotland.
October:
More faces come forward, expanding onto canvas, not just paper. I am challenging myself, and I am having fun.
While this is happening, folks are buying my t-shirts and totes and sending me photos of them in the real world, and this delights me too - more connection - what I crave most.
In good news from this month, I am notified that an abstract painting of mine, "On the wind," has sold from the fabulous Solo Gallery in Innerleithen in the gorgeous Scottish Borders!
I am beginning to feel overwhelmed by my studio space and all the new work I have created. I am concerned about where I'm going to keep it all. I toy with the idea of cleaning and organising my studio but then stop myself and pull out a large piece of raw canvas and make something hard to store instead. This project takes me somewhere else entirely. Suddenly there are two faces, and they are sharing a crown. I am researching declarations from antiquity and making wax seals.
Once again, I am challenging myself and having fun. I take myself to the Impressionist exhibition in the city centre and see the fabulous Richard E. Grant in the same week. Being enveloped in culture and humanity helps me feel alive - this goes hand in hand with making art. After the large painting gets squared away, I paint one more portrait of the year, another on raw unstretched canvas with an additional collaged element for the face. I write about the portraits and try to process them.
November:
My cat Theo takes priority this month as a 6-month check-up for his chronic kidney disease shows his condition is progressing, and we need to take some new actions. This is distressing, and my studio schedule falls apart. I also make the decision to leave the Abstractionistas. I am thankful for my time in helping to start and facilitate the group with Judith and Susan. I am proud of our exhibition record, original aesthetic, and mission statement. I wish them all the best as they go from strength to strength with the group and their art.
I explore some other creative outlets. I make a hair fascinator, a crown made from vintage lace, homemade clay dough, a miniature paper cup, and some things from commercial air-dry clay. I have been practising my ukulele too. I vote in the American elections, keep writing, and keep posting my videos. I keep looking after Theo.
Next up, a solo exhibition of my portraits comes together! I am beyond thrilled to be able to present the entire body of work in a cohesive solo exhibition. Starling & Campbell Gallery is born!
A partial view of the Starling & Campbell Gallery
I am pleased to share this body of work as I had envisioned it and with international audiences. I feature the exhibition in my Tuesday Video Visit. Click HERE to view it again. I also create a selection of t-shirts and totes to accompany the exhibition. https://gutlessapparel.teemill.com
I continue to promote the exhibition and compile some comments and reviews in a video. I am pleased that folks enjoyed the work and the virtual experience.
I am even more thrilled when two pieces are sold from the exhibition to collectors in the states.
She knew you yesterday mixed media on paper, 2022 20x16" Sold
At a moment's notice mixed media on raw unstretched canvas, 2022 20x16" Sold
December:
I was so pleased to see the gorgeous Christmas window at the fabulous Solo Gallery in Innerleithen, Scotland, featuring 5 pieces of my work. You can read why this was especially meaningful for me here.
A wonderful way to end the year
Like many makers and artists, I try to capitalise on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, but it was quiet this year. By the second week of December, all my thoughts were back on Theo with a week's stay in the animal hospital. It was a very stressful and worry-filled time. I missed a few Tuesday Studio Video Visits and didn't promote the close of my portrait exhibition. Thankfully, he is doing much better in time for Christmas and his 8th "gotcha" anniversary.
I do my best to promote my shop, my t-shirts and totes, and the exhibition, all while grateful for my patrons over on ko-fi who help me financially through their generous backing.
As Theo improves, I get out to see a painter friend for lunch in the city - we think big thoughts, catch up and have some laughs - it is a balm for the soul. I post a photo of Little Edie Beale and Andy Warhol, suggesting we should all dream and be too much. I stand by that advice. Christmas happens, and afterwards, I meet up with a writer friend in a graveyard, again reminded how important these moments are - to be around kindred spirits in the rain and snow. Mascara running, sopping wet - alive.
Dear reader, we've made it! 2023 is just around the corner. What will it bring? Let's find out together. Wishing you all the best with love and gratitude. Until next year, keep fighting and showing up, but do it your way. Let's dream and be too much! I'll see you there!
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