What do these shapes mean

This week saw a return to business as usual after the delightful visit from my neice. I returned to my studio routine and my job. 

I did still manage a bit of fun last weekend. I enjoyed a coffee meet up and some hyper local charity shopping with a pal last Saturday and then on Sunday another pal and I went to see the Phoebe Anna Traquair Murals. We also popped into a few other fringe art offerings, a lovely cafe, and a graveyard - so that's a great time in my book! I have seen the murals several times now but it was a treat to take our time and to really look at them. 

I painted a small painting (above). It is odd but has something I like about it. It doesn't exactly sit in the small series I have been working on but that's okay. 

I also finished a book I picked up in our local charity bookshop while browsing last week. I really enjoyed Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro. I see it has been made into a film. I watched the trailer after I finished the book and I am glad I read the book first. I will definitely read more of Ishiguro's work. I am unsure how I missed him all these years - after all he wrote The Remains of the Day. Klara and the Sun is beautiful, moving, and very timely. 

Things cross your path when they are meant to I guess. 

That's all I have for you just now as I have a busy day ahead tomorrow. 

I hope you are well, happy, and inspired wherever you are. And if not, tomorrow is another day. Keep fighting! 

The universe sings

New work, 30x30cm, 2026

Spread thin like water, stretched and open - elemental. 

Colours dance and move back and forth

It can be that simple. 

_______________________________

In other news, Leith is the best. 

Whether it's having chai and a long blether with a friend in a local cafe on Leith Walk, going to see the opening of a brilliant group exhibition at MOTE 102, or walking down the road to Coburg House to visit all the lovely artists in their studios, Leith is the place to be. 

I thank my lucky stars for the community I live in. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by such passionate, talented, kind, and solid people. Thank you for sharing your gifts. 

Go support these hard-working artists and inspiring venues.

Until next week, the project continues. 

Keep fighting.

Nestled within

detail

I have just returned from another brilliant visit to Cyan Clayworks in the heart of Leith. Fiona and Chris have both been busy developing new bodies of work in preparation for their Edinburgh Fringe exhibition. It was a delight to see some of their new work, fresh from the kiln. 

As I have probably said before, I love having Cyan Clayworks in my neighbourhood. Fiona and Chris have created such a warm and welcoming space. It is a place where we usually talk about everything and nothing while sharing the wide variety of weirdness between us. 

Often, other artists drop by as well, adding to the atmosphere of camaraderie and connection. Today, artist Emma Sutherland popped by to say hello and to bring some promo materials for her upcoming group exhibition. "I have been here before" which will be held at MOTE 102, and opens Friday 31 July from 6-8pm and then continues on from 1-9 August, and is open from 11am - 5pm. It was good to be reintroduced to Emma who I met years ago. I am looking forward to the exhibition. MOTE 102 is a great space that shows exciting and versatile work and is another gem in the neighbourhood. So if you are in Leith/Edinburgh or coming through town put both these shows on your calendar. 

I always feel uplifted and more connected to the bigger picture after a visit with Chris and Fiona in their beautiful space. They are genuine connectors - a vital part to any art space, scene, or movement. Thank you both for all you share and everything that you bring to the community. You make it look easy, but I know it is hard work. 

Tomorrow, I have plans to meet my good friend and fellow artist, Julia, for a wander around the city and we will see where we end up. There is usually art and tea involved. I am looking forward to it. I enjoy our art rambles tremendously. 

In other news, my project continues, I have just completed day 42. I am starting to overthink it, and I feel like bowing out at times, but the information gleaned from my time on "the project" can't be understated. It's powerful and leading me somewhere so I will continue to do it whether I am in the flow or not.

This week was also full of nostalgia. I am noticing time in a very concrete way that has stopped me in my tracks more than a few times. I think the project and all that goes with it has primed the pump for this sort of reckoning.

Slow, fast, slow, fast, gone. I think I am in the early days of the second fast.

I am learning a lot, remaining open, and staying curious which may help slow it down a bit or perhaps it just makes me more acutely aware of the fast, and how fleeting everything is. 

Time continues to fold in on itself and I am nestled within.
You are there too. 

X.

detail

Consulting the oracles

conversation with self

It's been a hard month - Loss, illness, and unease

It's been a beautiful month - Conversations, understanding, and alchemy

A creative return 

Consulting the oracles

My hands have moved

Reclaiming stolen property

Thank you

Thank you

Thank you

For Brian with gratitude always.

I need to find my guts (again)

Consumption

mixed media on canvas, 60 x 70 cm

©2023 Megan Chapman

Fortress building
mixed media on canvas, 60 x 92 cm
©2023 Megan Chapman

I feel like a combination of these two paintings from 2023. I need to find my guts. I need to get my arse back in the deep end.

Thank you, Brian for seeing, believing, and championing my work. Your kindness after our art paths crossed soon after I moved to Scotland will never be forgotten.

Rest in power.

Exhibition News!

Under the surface
mixed media on canvas, 10x10cm
2026 © Megan Chapman

Hello Dear Readers,

I hope you enjoyed last week's post featuring a new wee painting and poem. If you've been following my work long enough, you'll know that titles are very important to me. Naming my work is an equal part of my process. The poem was a way for me to illustrate how titles serve as keys to let the viewer in to the work.

Last week's small painting and poem (and the work shown above) were all inspired by being invited by fellow artist and dear friend Steven Heaton to participate in Saul Hay Gallery's 10th anniversary exhibition next month in Manchester. 

50 artists from Saul Hay’s past and present have been challenged to create a piece measuring just 10x10cm. In turn each artist has invited a new artist, one who has never shown at Saul Hay before, to join the show. 

10 x 10 Exhibition

Saul Hay Gallery

​Saturday 13th June - Sunday 28th June 2026 ​​​

Tuesday to Saturday 10 - 5.30 and Sunday 10 - 5

Closed Sunday 21st

Railway Cottage, behind Bass Warehouse, off Castle Street,
Castlefield, Manchester M3 4LZ

Email: info@saulhayfineart.co.uk

You can view the 10x10 works online and more will continue to be added.

Disappear Here
Mixed Media on Canvas, 10x10cm
2026 © Megan Chapman
Sold

The art of living

Royal Scottish Academy Edinburgh

Hello, Dear Readers,

I hope you are doing okay and that you enjoyed last week's post on my day trip to Glasgow.

This week was varied; Monday was spent working on US and UK taxes. Tuesday, I received a Reiki session from a friend and practitioner-in-training, and afterwards we shared a delicious lunch. Wednesday and Thursday were spent working at my job with the Scottish Artists Union. After a matcha morning with a pal, Friday was mostly spent following the election results; however, in the evening, I attended the Royal Scottish Academy's 200th Annual Exhibition with two artist friends, both of whom had work in the show. Beyond spending time with them, I also bumped into a couple of other peers who had pieces in the prestigious exhibition. It is a strong show, and I look forward to going back when it is quieter.

This weekend I will be spending time in the studio listening to music and painting. I am working on a small 10 x 10 cm piece for an upcoming exhibition in Manchester. I will share more details regarding the exhibition soon.

In other news, spring is truly upon us now, with the trees in their fresh verdant coats and the small birds flitting about singing their morning songs.

And that's all I have for you this week. The studio is calling, and I must go.

Let Glasgow Flourish

City Chambers

Julia and I met at Edinburgh Waverley for our 10:15 train to Glasgow. We blethered away as the train sped through the bright yellow fields, arriving at our destination within the hour. I have always loved Glasgow and felt an affinity and connection from the first time I visited.

We readied ourselves for our day of adventure with cups of tea near the station, and then we were off! Walking along George Square, we popped into the gorgeous Victorian Glasgow City Chambers to enjoy the beautiful mosaics. I have walked past the stately building many times, but it never occurred to me to step inside. I was glad Julia mentioned the beautiful mosaic work and prompted our brief visit.

Keeper of Light by Smug

As we continued our walk through the city, we happened upon Keeper of Light, one of the brilliant murals by the artist Smug. I exclaimed, “Wow!” as I simply wasn’t expecting the mammoth painting. Julia and I took photos of the arresting vision in red.

We then continued on our way to see the current exhibitions at Trongate 103. Once inside the building, we encountered the moving and troubling images from Marc Davenant's Outsiders.

Neuk Collective Together Apart

We made our way upstairs as we had specifically come to Glasgow to see the Neuk Collective Exhibition, Together Apart. It is a varied exhibition, with plenty of work across most media to see and experience. I especially enjoyed the interactive works. Tactile art has interested me since I created my Books series. There were loads of works in Together Apart that called for tactile investigation; sound, colour, texture and a strong sense of play tied the exhibition together. This is the second Neuk Collective exhibition I have attended in person. I always get a strong sense of the thoughtfulness and care that goes into the planning and execution to ensure the experience is inclusive and accessible for as many people as possible.

We then visited Street Level Photoworks to view Simon Phipps's Brutal Scotland: Scotland's Post-War Modernist Architecture. A brilliant photography exhibition of brutalist buildings, a style that I have only grown to appreciate in recent years.

We rounded out our visit to Trongate 103 with a quick dash through the Glasgow Print Studio’s current exhibitions, viewing Janka Malkowska's Wood Cuts and works by featured artist, Consuelo R. Servan.

I was thankful to be able to view these five very different but equally important exhibitions. Accessible spaces such as Trongate 103 that offer so many different media, expressions, and opportunities under one roof are critical and must continue to be rallied around and supported in times of crisis and in our everyday lives. We must never take them for granted. Arts venues contribute to our well-being, our humanity, and build our communities. The importance of this cannot be understated. Solidarity to all who are working so hard and fighting to keep the doors open.

After all that art, we needed some food, so we walked down the road to Mono for a simple lunch of soup and some tasty focaccia. We followed this with a quick stop by Mr Ben Retro Clothing for a wee browse.

Cult of St. Enoch by Smug

St. Mungo by Smug

We then headed towards the Glasgow Necropolis. I have a thing for graveyards, and thankfully, Julia likes them too. We wandered up the road towards the city of the dead, where 50,000 people are buried on the 37- acre site. As we continued walking, we came across two more of Smug’s arresting murals - Cult of St Enoch and later Saint Mungo. All three of Smug's murals were a delight to happen across as we walked. Truth be told, I am not always a fan of public art or murals, but these are special.

Glasgow Necropolis

Glasgow Necropolis

Before we knew it, we were walking next to the Glasgow Cathedral (unfortunately, with the cathedral spire under wraps for renovation). We crossed the bridge to the garden-like hillside Necropolis, with its winding tiers of towering monuments, colourful wrought iron mausoleum gates, and views over the city. It immediately brought to mind Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, which I visited twice during a four-day trip in 2016. I do love a cemetery! Julia and I slowly wandered up the hill, looking at the various graves. I video-called my mother to show her a few monuments, and gave her a dramatic reading of the script on the tomb of actor-manager John Henry Alexander of the Theatre Royal. I then showed her some of the ornate gates and the cathedral in the distance. Technology can be pretty wonderful at times.

Afterwards, Julia and I made our way back down the hill towards Queen Street Station and hopped on the train. We shared part of the journey back with two sleepy wedding revellers until we managed to find more private seats under a poster with a quote from a favourite Altered Images song,“I could be happy.”

We once again travelled through yellow fields and onto Waverley; another brilliant adventure in the books.

I could be happy...

You bloom in spring

my studio wall for my mother because she likes it

Spring has sprung! The light in the studio has been calling me. Even if I just sit and stare out the window or organise my materials, it's a better day. I love touching all the things - twine, hanging wires, screws, pencils, scissors, and all my various tools. I enjoy putting like with like and lining them up in order. I find it very satisfying. I found an Ikea peg board for £3 at a charity shop recently and was then able to source some 3-D printed hooks on Vinted very affordably that fit it. Good value and making things come together fills me with joy. The studio provides ample opportunity for this.

I hate tape but I have loads of it

This week I went through my painting rack and found at least nine canvases that I have decided no longer work. I asked a fellow painter to look over them as well to make sure I wasn't making any "rash decisions." I wrote that "one canvas might have a Lynchian promise, but many just feel unfinished - like forced thoughts that didn't materialise." I think they are all getting painted over and any photos of them removed from my archive. I haven't painted over anything in years - but now is the time again. Canvases don't grow on trees and I know I can paint something better or perhaps more meaningful than what is there currently.

I have been walking more this week and taking photos while enjoying the flowers and blooming trees. I also planted my garden - carrots, beets, radish, potatoes, onions, scallions, cabbage, broccoli, courgette, and loads of flowers. It's always a bit of an experiment. I don't worry about it much - I just see what works and what doesn't - no stress. Last year I was delighted with my potatoes and spinach. It's always a creative practice in my square foot garden. I'll keep you updated.

Yesterday, I had the unique opportunity of helping a friend and fellow artist deliver his and his partner's work to a prestigious exhibition. I really enjoyed the experience. It reminded me how comfortable I am around art - handling it with care and wanting it to look its best. Seeing all the work being unloaded from crates and packages in the gorgeous gallery space was a thrill and a comfort, and also a lot of work! It's a good feeling to be able to help someone and I got a lot out of it too. The experience reminded me of where I feel I belong and this is helpful so that I can compare it to the experiences where I feel I don't.

Princes street gardens

Later in the day, I met up with another artist and we enjoyed the sunshine in Princes Street Gardens which is bursting with Spring beauty. We had an important and good chat about art and life and made plans for an art adventure next week.

And on this gorgeous day, that's all I have for you. This post has been brought to you by the sun, a homemade blueberry Matcha, and one song on repeat.

Thanks for being here and please keep fighting for comfort and joy, for all.

Watching the light

Another place in time

Dear Reader, 

I hope the sun is shining where you are and that you are well and happy. I guess I enjoyed the community so much last week, that I caught the community cold. I have been resting, researching, and doing nothing at all and it has been much needed. I wish I didn't have to get sick or have a migraine for my body and brain to understand how important deep rest is. 

Going forward I must prioritise this. Without rest and self preservation, there is nothing. 

Take care until next week and thank you for being here. 

- Megan 

Your community is waiting

Cup of sun in the studio

The sun is shining through the window and onto my face. Daffodils smile at me from the jar on the table and I have a dreamy Hermanos Gutiérrez song on repeat on my big headphones. I sway to the music like a reed in water. 

Yesterday, I walked out the door and into the sun. I surveyed the pots in my garden - Daffodils, Muscari, Tulips, and Hyacinth all greeted me. The Lilac is preparing to leaf. I left my wee haven and walked on through the neighbourhood past the art school where two women were working on a large piece outside. I saw the shopkeeper who sells plants chatting with passersby. I walked on to the library where the friendly librarians answered my questions and cheerfully assisted me in my research. I left with two books, new information, and a spring in my step. I walked down the road past the glass artist working in her studio window and then on to the wee grocery, where we talked about celebrating the sun, enjoying our days, and the pleasures of good food. And then after being out in my neighbourhood for a couple of hours I walked back home. On my way, I shared a laugh with a young man enjoying a drink outside, and I found some street treasure. 

Street treasure: A box of 100 Flower Postcards from the Royal Horticultural Society

Later in the day I hit the neighbourhood streets again to visit my friends at their open studio event and met their friends too. We all had spirited conversations peppered with shared laughs and commiserations about art, life, and the way of things. I think alliances were forged or at least a recognition of kindred spirits. It was a good afternoon that turned into night. I left with art, new information, and again with a spring in my step.

It was a wonderful day full of everything I value and believe in. It was the type of day I dreamed about as a child when I played with my Fisher Price Village, read a Richard Scarry book, or watched Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood on PBS. We can never underestimate the power of community connection and interdependence.

Written on my studio wall: 

Protect your peace. Say No.
Say Yes to Art, Movement, Nature, and Community.
Create your world now, not later. 

So go outside and be weird, be awkward, be ridiculous, laugh loudly, say the wrong thing. Disappoint people. Find the people who won't be disappointed. Ask for help. Be vulnerable. Your one wild and precious life and your community is waiting.

Thank you for being part of mine

Joy is resistance

You know what's cool? Walking down a road you've never been on with your pal, then standing with your backs against a wall in the winter sun. I’ve done this twice lately and highly recommend it. If you joke that you both look like members of an '80s band and share a laugh, it’s even better.

Julia and I have been roaming the streets again, seeing art, and sitting in coffee shops. We have already seen some great exhibitions this year. This is normally where I would tell you all about them but I cannae be arsed. Go out and see some art wherever you live. 

I will show you one of my new works in progress. I decided to pop it into a frame just to see how it would feel in one, and it seemed to agree with it. I like my frames like I like my art, a bit dirty and damaged. 

In other news, I have been reading books, organising, working, meditating, baking, and learning new ways of being. It's a good way to stay sane when everything is awful and gross. I am also taking action, voting, calling, signing, and joining. Community, community, community - that's where it's at. I hope you are being supported by your community. I hope you are supporting your community. 

Stay free, be well, and stand against walls in the sun. 

A rhythm that I can fall into

work in progress

Scotland is a strange embrace. It is a sure road under my feet, even with its many curious twists and turns. It is a home I have always known and longed for, yet it sits slightly askew. The gratitude I feel for this land is enormous, and the personification of it is easily done. My body senses familiarity at every turn.

There is a safety here for me, a social contract understood: foundational. Even with all its problems and self-doubts, it provides a known beat, a rhythm that I can fall into.

It catches me off guard with its lull of consistency. If one has never felt such ground, it's easy to downplay. It runs at a humane pace and is a place of workers, history, and darkness. Its greatness is not boastful, bright, or new.

Scotland is a strange embrace.

___________________

Until next week, take care and keep fighting. Thank you for being on this path with me.  And if you like a spot of David Bowie, punk rock, and dream pop here's a playlist for you.

All my rituals

Cover of the Cult Deprogramming manual, 1998-1999
 " ...day to day. Each of us should be willing to flow along with the tide and not set up resistance against anything that comes. This is necessary so that growth and redemption can occur."

Where are my rituals? Where is my mind? And what is okay to reflect on when the world is going to hell and everyone is stressed. It all seems so gross. 

Where are the things that I know to do after 53 years on the planet that uniquely ground, calm, inspire and excite me? Not people like me or similar to me, or that share a set of characteristics to me, and especially not the fucking data set and me. 

ME. I remember from my childhood that Mr. Rogers on PBS would tell me that there was no one else like ME. That each human was unique and special, one of a kind. I liked this idea. There was only one me and only one you. Yet, somehow we could create a kind community and work together.

But then we got other messaging as we were growing up, don't let that uniqueness go to your head, don't feel too special. Who do you think you are? Don't be weird. Don't stick out. Be more like them. Wear this, buy that. Eat this, not that. Say this, and for god sake don't say that. 

Like most, I got swept up in it for periods of time, but I could never maintain the facade. I would rebel against this behaviour and then be an exaggerated version of my "true" self. Back and forth it went until I had no idea who I was.

Over the years, I have been perceived as a rebel, a punk, a writer, an actor, an artist. Politically engaged, and a highly sensitive person. Intense, Self absorbed, Sarcastic, A live wire, Emotional, Anxious, and way too much. 

However, I am also perceived as overly responsible, conscientious to a fault, rule abiding (if they make sense), mature for my age and an old soul (as a child) - and yet also naive, gullible, and a people pleaser. Extremely loyal, tenacious, and dedicated. I am an outwardly hard worker (and working even harder behind the scenes). 

If you didn't know this about me, the algorithm does; and feeds me content that maintains my interest and exploits my weakness. 

Let the record state - that while being many of these perceptions and more, I have also been a consistently funny human. I am not sure if the bastards have figured that out yet. 

Inside the manual

The idea was that the imagined cult member would look at the book and the images would reset their memories and they would be restored to the person their family remembered from before the cult. This was when assuming characters and scenarios were an important part of my work.

Now back to me (and you) and the fucking data set. In 1998-99 I made a piece called "the cult deprogramming manual" at the University of Oregon as part of my BFA terminal exhibition and right now I feel I could benefit from gazing into its pages. I think a lot of us could. You can read a bit more about the manual and some of my other earlier work at the U of O in this old blog post from 2008.

I am so tired of being fed information that the algorithm knows I will like or respond to. I am tired of being sold to and manipulated and I am tired of being mined for data. We all are. I am tired of wondering if an app could help me feel better. I am pretty media savvy and I remember existing long before the internet - but the bastards got me anyway - you can't will power your way out of something so expertly designed and crafted to influence and addict. 

Obviously over the years the internet has been weaponised against us and our poor brains. We have unwittingly found ourselves in a cult. And now I know it's more important than ever to spend time in my studio and turn my back on so much bullshit. 

How are you taking back control or managing your exposure to all of this relentless messaging? How are you still staying engaged with your community (online and offline) while setting limits? How are you staying aware of the problems of the world and taking action without it feeling performative and hollow or without becoming overwhelmed? Have you read or listened to a book on the subject that has impacted you and made a difference in how you are navigating all of this? I'd love to hear about it. 

Until next week, I will be over here clawing back my rituals. 

And remember, that there truly is no one like you and I like you just as you are. Keep Fighting! X.

Let's go!

"Fear is the cheapest room in the house, I'd like to see you living in better conditions." - Hafiz

One day in early November, I was walking through my flat and the solution came to me suddenly. "I know how it all fits - I know how to make this work!" And with that a plan was finally put into motion, not a thought rolling around in my head endlessly, not a problem or a burden but a hopeful and actionable step. 

I gave my notice at Studio G23 at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall at the start of December. After eleven years it was time to move my studio. 

And so I did. I moved by multiple awkward bus trips and several taxis and somehow bit by bit in between work and other engagements, the move was handled. I am very grateful to my pal Julia for helping me on multiple occasions. Her kind partner Robb helped with the last two loads by car. I can't thank them enough. 

I am also thankful to my close friends who unknowingly kept me accountable by reading my updates as I navigated the process. 

Of course, I also had to patch holes, paint, and clean up the old studio. And even though I haven't recorded a Tuesday Studio Video Visit in ages, I recorded a sign off before I turned off the lights and said my last goodbye to my old studio. 

Memories and ghosts 

Studio G23: December 2014 - December 2025

Once at the new space, I had to set it all up again and reconfigure things. I am not going to lie it was a hell of a lot of work - but also very exciting. All my paintings and materials are back together in one place! I can now work in a light filled space with instant access. A missing piece has been returned and just in time for Christmas and New Year - the ultimate gift to myself. Let me introduce you to my new studio! Join me in my excitement as I begin this new chapter.

space to dream and work

everything in its right place

I still have some fine tuning to do on the new space, furniture to add or take away, and works on paper to organise better, but I am very excited to move forward and return to my work in this space in the new year. I think there will be a bit of a reintroduction of myself and my work, updates to make to my website, and hopefully better ways for us to connect online and in person over my work!

I am thankful to everyone who has made this possible: friends, family, co-workers, my awesome landlady, and my generous ko-fi supporters (Jennifer, Tamsin, Jennifer, and Annie) and of course, my long term patrons. I am also thankful to myself for never giving up and for my resolute dedication to art. It's ridiculously hard to be an artist in a society that doesn't always value or understand what we're on the planet to do, particularly in a culture that often exploits creativity yet still demands gratitude.

I will never forget those who have supported and recognised my work over the years and have made this path just a little bit easier. Thank you. 

Until next week (or year) keep fighting. We need you and the gifts you bring. 
Here's a song for you. 
__________________

PS. I know that I usually write the year end review post on the last Friday of December, but I am leading with the new studio because I'd rather look forward or be in the now (and next week - I will see what the fuss was about in 2025). Looks like we are already shaking things up! Happy New Year when the time comes - and thanks for your support.

A meditative pause

Glitter disco monarch of the glen with added buddha

How in the world is it already Friday again? Sorry, these types of pronouncements are about as dull as talking about the weather.

I have been awake for ages in the dark so I figured I might as well type a few words. I am still not ready to share what I have been up to on the art front. Maybe I will feel inclined to share this on boxing day (which will be the next time I write here). 

I also can't believe that we are less than a week away from Christmas. I put out a few decorations but nothing major - I've been too preoccupied with my job and my behind the scenes art vibes. Let's just say I have been working hard. Thankfully, I have had some welcomed help from my pal Julia (it's not a blog if my talented friend isn't in the mix these days).

 

all that glitters

At this point in my life, Christmas serves as a meditative pause. I am looking forward to time off work, time to reflect, to watch films, eat good food, catch up with some friends and go for walks. Time to settle into some new patterns and create future pathways. Ooh, and time for genealogy too! Now, I'm excited!

Whatever you get up to during the festive season, I hope you have moments of peace and security. It's been one hell of a year for a lot of us, so take it easy and don't forget to honour your needs (this is a reminder to myself). And remember too, it's almost Solstice - the light will be making its slow return back to us!

Wishing you a joyous season. Thank you for sharing some of your precious time with me. We need you and the gifts you bring. Keep fighting and shining.

Leith must be the place

From the window of Custom House Leith

Hello Dear Readers, 

I hope December finds you well and cosy. This post practically wrote itself last Saturday. When I left you last week, I mentioned I was going to meet Julia to explore the Leith Creative Trail and that is what we did. 

Julia and I met in front of the Leith Library at 11am and we wandered the streets all day in search of everything the artists and makers of Leith had on offer. It was a full day of adventure, beauty, and community. Leith is definitely the place. 

We visited the following fantastic Leith venues:

Art Glass Studio 34 / SilverHub Studios / Mote 102 / Ground Floor EHFM / Coburg House / Cyan Clayworks / Custom House / Brown’s of Leith / Away Industries / Populus Cafe / Bethany Shop / Leith Makers Open Studios & MULCH:Collective Exhibition / Sebs Urban Jungle Winter Makers Market The excitement continues this weekend so do check the trail guide for all the details.

Happiness is a blue wall

While we were out walking the Creative Trail, Julia spied this blue wall and thought it would make an ideal backdrop. I was proudly wearing my new brooch designed by Julia and happy to pose for a few photographs.

I am lucky to have a friend that I feel so comfortable around and who has a great sense of colour. I really don't like having my picture taken so it says a lot about the photographer when I look this relaxed. Her brooch made me feel like a million bucks. I do hope you will check them out. As I have said many times, colour is medicine and good friends are the best. Find your new brooch and view Julia's art here: https://julialaingstudio.com

I need to get ready to meet a pal for a Friday morning walk. There are other things going on behind the scenes of course, but more on that later. 

Wherever you are, don't let the bastards get you down. Keep fighting and shining. 
We need you and the gifts you bring. X.

Paying the light bill for your soul

Flock expansion

Hello Dear Readers, 

When I left you last Friday, I needed to go see a man about some chickens, and that is what I did. I went back to Cyan Clayworks where I picked up my new yellow birds and purchased a beautiful ramen bowl for a friend's birthday. It's a joy to support our local and independent artists and makers. It's always a win in my book.

paintings, brushes, and books 

On Sunday, my pal Julia Laing came over on a super dreich day and helped me move some things. She gets the friendship of the year award. And speaking of Julia, I also purchased some of her new work this week as well.

Check out Julia's latest offerings on her site. Colour is a powerful medicine and Julia brings the colour! I chose "citrus sprinkles" from her new statement brooch collection. Pictured below. There are currently just 5 left...

Get one for yourself 

Julia and I are meeting up tomorrow for the Leith Creative Trail and so I can collect my new brooch! I am also looking forward to seeing what local beauties we will discover as we wander about.

In other news this week - I worked and I charity shopped, therefore I am...(you will notice what is missing again, making my own A R T but don't worry - I am thinking about it in big ways).

Speaking of charity shopping, look at this treasure! I almost passed it by, but I am so glad I didn't, it's my new power ring. It's massive - it's vintage, I love it! 

chonky bling

However, I bought nothing today, except a necessary local bus ticket. I am a frugal person by necessity and design. I will also spend money on things I believe in. I believe in artists and makers. I believe in local businesses. I sure hope you do too. Money exchanged fairly and in alignment with my values gives me a good honest feeling. 

I can be an overthinker and worrier, and I have to research everything. I also deal with decision fatigue, but I have noticed that this rarely happens when it comes to art or second hand goods.

So this is my spiel this week. If you are able to at all (and I know it is hard out there - believe me I know) to carve out a budget for handmade/local/secondhand goods, please do try. It's like paying the light bill for your soul. And the artists/locals/charities can keep working for good and bringing more light.

I will leave you on that bright note and this reminder to take care, keep fighting, and keep lighting the way. I am thankful for you. 

Collection and colour: "Teddy" Sculpture by Christine Pike

And if you are still here and feel like dancing... I am still listening to this on repeat.