Worlds in Colour - Graystone Gallery

In my first exhibition of 2025 I’m pleased to be back at Graystone Gallery, Edinburgh for ‘Worlds in Colour’, a four woman show celebrating “the boundless potential of colour, demonstrating its ability to transform space and emotion.”

As you know, I’ve been learning about, growing and foraging natural pigments over the last year. These are the first works to include, to varying degrees, this new way of working for me and I’m really looking forward to hearing what you think about the paintings!

A little about my process…

“This new collection of paintings is a conversation and exchange between artist and earth. The use of natural pigments, alongside the human-made, deepening the works relationship to place. They have been physically in the making since the seeds were sown in our community dye garden in the spring of 2024. The linen, woven near my home on Bute, is saturated with pigment gently extracted from the plants I’ve grown and foraged here. These plants, pigments and fibres tell a story of place, time, space, care, weather, earth, sharing, learning and community. Each piece of fabric is imbued with this and lays the foundation for the artwork to be built.

This moment of transition and development of materials, combining the natural pigments with synthetic, speaks of the process of change. A liminal space which acknowledges the time and effort involved in these more sustainable practices, but with positivity and hope for what is possible.”

The exhibition opens to the public Friday 7th March and runs until Saturday 5th April, Graystone Gallery, 52 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge Edinburgh EH3 5AX.

‘Sea Change’

Indigo, oak gall and acrylic pigments with charcoal, on Bute linen

34 × 44 cm framed in a wood stained with acorn cap ink

From the gallery…

“Worlds in Colour is a vibrant and immersive exhibition celebrating the power of colour in contemporary art. Featuring the work of Erraid Gaskell, Jane Hunter, Hetty Haxworth, and Christine Clark, this exhibition explores how colour shapes our perception of landscapes, emotions, and abstract forms. 

 Each artist brings a unique approach to conveying mood, movement, and memory. From atmospheric land and seascapes to dynamic geometric compositions, the works in this exhibition invite viewers to experience the world through different chromatic lenses.”  

‘A Small Act 1 - 8’

A series of eight small 20.5cm square paintings

Various natural pigments (Indigo, Marigold, Oak Gall), acrylic inks and charcoal on Bute linen.

We had a lovely evening in Edinburgh for the private view, huge thanks to Lesley and Rob for their wonderful curation, hanging and writing. Thanks also to my fellow artists, a couple of which I was pleased to meet at the gallery - Hetty Haxworth, Christine Clark and Erraid Gaskell, also ceramicists Pauline Cumming, Judith Davies, Rowena Gilbert and Janine Waudby. What a fantastic group of women!

SSA Annual at The Royal Scottish Academy 2024

Honoured to have my painting ‘A Symbiotic Dance’ selected for the 2024 Society of Scottish Artists Annual Exhibition at The Royal Scottish Academy in Edinburgh.

This painting began it’s life on my 2022 artists residency at Cove Park. It speaks of our deeply symbiotic relationship with the landscape and constant connection to the natural world. The shifts in light and weather, the driving rain that stung my skin, the wind that whipped up the hill and howled through our building, the waves that moved my body in the loch and the glorious low winter sun that appeared through the clouds to light up the landscape. The work also explores the sense of community I found and the interconnectedness with my fellow Cove Park residents, albeit transiently, of our solitary endeavours. As I moved layers of ink around on these canvases the memories of this time, of deep connection to people and place, replayed through my mind. Long hours in my studio making hundreds of tiny repeating marks as I considered the constant movement of nature, how we interact with it, our connection and relationships with each other and with the natural world.

‘A Symbiotic Dance’

“The SSA Annual Exhibition is one of the largest contemporary art exhibitions in Scotland. It is produced and supported entirely by artists with no public funding. The exhibition will take place at The Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh from Saturday 23 November – Wednesday 11 December 2024. 

We are an outward-looking Society that is committed to bringing international and local artists together, enriching the creative culture of Scotland and providing a platform for diverse perspectives. We have a proud history of promoting contemporary artists at all stages of their career by exhibiting established and mid-career artists alongside emerging artists and new art school graduates; and with a 126th Annual Exhibition that showcases a spectacular cross-section of what contemporary art in Scotland has to offer, this year is no exception.”

Exhibition Dates:
23 November  – 11 December 2024

Opening Times:
Monday to Sunday 10am-5pm (last entry 30 minutes prior to closing).

Venue:
Upper Galleries, The Royal Scottish Academy, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL

Entry is via the RSA Front Door entrance on Princes Street. If you require stair-free access please enter by the ramp at the RSA Back Door (South Entrance) and speak to a member of NGS staff for assistance. 

Entry:
£6 | £4 concessions
Free Entry for SSA Members
Free entry for all on Mondays
Exhibition catalogues are available to purchase at the exhibition for £6 or £4 Members and concessions.

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Some highlights from the private view, including ‘Avian Ark’ by David Faithfull, ‘Moth Soup’ by Kate Bell, two gorgeous prints by Rachel Duckhouse and the brilliant ‘The Winston Smith Library of Victory and Truth’ by Hans K Clausen (which features 1,984 copies of George Orwell’s 1984).

All the Colours of Emotion - Graystone Gallery

A group exhibition featuring three artists and two ceramicists at Graystone Gallery, Edinburgh.

17 May - 16 June 2024

Private View 16 May 6-8pm - contact the gallery to confirm attendance in advance

The source, mixed media on canvas, 100 x 100 cm

My work is greatly influenced by nature, not as something to sit outside of and admire, but as something we are all part of.

In my paintings, I draw on my own personal experiences and feelings, attempting to convey a sense of, and an atmosphere conducive to, contemplation and thoughtfulness.

From the gallery:

Colour is a universal language of emotion in art

“Every emotion has a colour. Warm colours like reds, oranges, and yellows evoke feelings of energy, passion, and warmth. They ignite excitement and stimulate the senses, drawing our attention with their vibrant intensity. Cool colours such as blues, greens, and purples elicit calmness, serenity, and introspection. They have a soothing effect, inviting us to contemplate and reflect.

We respond emotionally to the saturation and brightness of colours. Bold colours evoke dynamism and vitality while muted tones may express melancholy or nostalgia. Our artists harness the emotional power of colour, from rich, earthy tones to vibrant, expressive palettes, colour serves as a universal language of emotion in art, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers to touch our hearts and minds.”

“This series of works has come following a year of change, growth and learning. Having recently moved to the Isle of Bute I’ve found great joy and solace in the close proximity of nature and community here.

These paintings have developed as maps of experience, observation and emotion. Documenting; the colours of the landscape, patterns on rocks or on the waters surface, the feeling of warm sun on my face or the icy sea on my skin, the song of the blackbird, recording time through marks on the page. They come together in an ostensibly abstract image, but an image which actually represents so much.”. - Jane

Visit the gallery website for further information about the exhibition and available works - Graystone Gallery

Hold fast, mixed media on canvas, 100 x 100 cm

VAS Centenary Exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy

“On a winter’s eve in Edinburgh, 1924, Visual Arts Scotland (VAS) held their first-ever meeting, becoming early pioneers of inclusivity within Scotland’s artistic landscape. One-hundred years later, the organisation has grown into a leading platform for national and international artists and now celebrates its centenary with a year packed full of opportunities for its members.  

To kick off 2024’s celebrations, VAS are holding their biggest-ever exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy in Edinburgh, showcasing work from the finest contemporary artists across Scotland and beyond. Then and Now: 100 Years of Visual Arts Scotland will showcase 242 artists and over 300 artworks, with art ranging from ceramics, paintings, mixed media, photography, sculpture, and a variety of contemporary art forms.”

Over the moon to have had my painting ‘Surface tension’ selected and hung in this prestigious exhibition. Thank you so much to the selection committee and Visual Arts Scotland board.

Preview Night: 16th February 2024, 6pm - 8pm

- Open Date: 17th of February 2024

- Closing Date 13th March 2024

- Opening times: Mon to Sat 10 – 5pm, Sun 12 – 5pm

The Royal Scottish Academy, The Mound, Edinburgh.

SSA Annual Exhibition at Maclaurin Art Gallery

So pleased to have had my painting ‘Remnants of passage’ selected for the Society of Scottish Artists Annual Exhibition 2023.

“The 125th SSA Annual Exhibition, one of the largest and most prestigious shows of contemporary art in Scotland, is being held in Ayr for the first time in The Maclaurin Art Gallery. 

The exhibition will include paintings by Peter Howson OBE, one of Scotland’s leading contemporary painters and patron of The Maclaurin Art Gallery.

“Holding our most important show in Ayr marks the first step of the SSA’s ambition to reach new audiences, both nationally and internationally.” said Vasile Toch, SSA President.

 “This year’s show embraces all art forms including moving image, sculpture and installation creating a stimulating and inspiring array of talent from emerging and experienced artists.”  

The 150 selected artworks are from local, national and international artists and will be on show in all five galleries. In addition, Cutlog’s moving image presentation will play throughout the duration of the exhibition.”

The Maclaurin Art Gallery, Rozelle Estate, Ayr KA7 4NQ – View on google maps.

Exhibition Open 19 November 2023 – 14 January 2024

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sunday 12-5pm.

(Gallery Closed 24, 25, 26 December, Open 10am-4pm 27, 28, 29, 30 December and closed 31 December 2023, 1 & 2 January 2024).

If you have any queries please contact admin@s-s-a.org

VIEW THE VIRTUAL TOUR

The Big Art Show, Paisley

Following a hugely successful inaugural exhibition in 2022, The Big Art Show returned in 2023 and I was delighted to have three paintings included in the show.

The exhibition runs from 31 August - 18 November 2023 at The Art Department, Causeyside Street, Paisley PA1 1UQ

Open - Tue-Sat 10am-4pm

Evolve - Tighnabruaich Gallery

A group exhibition at Tighnabruaich Gallery, Argyll from 1 - 23 July 2023.

This exhibition features the work of ten artists exploring themes of evolution, growth, observation, development and change.

I am delighted to have five new paintings included in the show, all 30 x 30 cm and float framed in beautiful white painted wood. You can also read my accompanying text below:

“As I mix inks and prepare to paint in my new studio here on the Isle of Bute, I contemplate the path that has lead me here and how my practice, and I, have evolved in that time.

My relationship with landscape and place have always been a strong theme in the work I make.

Earlier in my career geological maps and the exploration of landscape in the context of deep time were the dominant inspirations, developing an understanding of place from its very building blocks. As time went on, and by learning more about the world around us; flora, fauna, land, and seas, my focus moved towards a more emotional consideration of our interconnectedness with nature. Care for the natural world, and living symbiotically with it, has many benefits for nature and humans. In the words of Mary Oliver: “…attention is the beginning of devotion.” At the same time my choice of medium also developed, from layering and stitching fabrics to painting with watery inks, affording me more expressive and organic marks.

Having lived and worked in the busy, urban setting of the central belt all my life, my love for nature grew into a deep longing to be closer to it. Over the past few years I have been considering my sense of belonging and search for connection to nature and community. This culminated in a move to Rothesay in 2022. These paintings explore this time of change, layers of complex thoughts and feelings, marks of time and connection.“

This is a really gorgeous and moving exhibition, superbly curated by Rosalyn McKenna. I highly recommend a trip to Tighnabruaich to see this beautiful collection of works from a number of talented artists. You can also see all the works and details on the gallery website.

Tighnabruaich Gallery

Seaside House
Tighnabruaich, Argyll, Scotland
PA21 2DR

OPENING HOURS
Monday 11am - 3pm
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 11am - 3pm
Friday 11am - 3pm
Saturday 11am - 3pm
Sunday 11am - 3pm

SSA Annual Exhibition at The Royal Scottish Academy

“This year marks the 130th anniversary of the inaugural Society of Scottish Artists exhibition. To celebrate, we are taking a unique look at its vibrant history, and showcasing a selection of works that have contributed to Scotland’s artistic culture. We are also exhibiting new works by artists from across Scotland that respond to these artworks from the past from contemporary perspectives.

The SSA Annual Exhibition is one of the largest contemporary art exhibitions in Scotland. The exhibition is produced and supported entirely by artists with no public funding and will take place at the Royal Scottish Academy from 17 December 2022 – 10 January 2023.”

Delighted to have had ‘The Ebb and Flow’ selected and hung in this historic place.

NORTH - Visual Arts Scotland

NORTH is the first exhibition of Visual Arts Scotland’s Compass exhibition programme; a series of exhibitions connecting the North, South, East and West of Scotland, and arguably their most ambitious project to date. “This is an exciting opportunity to engage with new spaces and connect with our Members on a wider scale than we have done before.”

I’m pleased to have had my painting ‘Between Us’ selected for this wonderful exhibition.

NORTH runs from 2-21 December 2022, Mon-Fri, 9-5pm. Free Entry.
Private View 1 December, 6-8pm.

Venue: Inverness Creative Academy, Midmills Building, Stephen's Street, Inverness IV2 3JP

Image of exhibition space, featuring works by Helen Moore, Lindsey Lavender and Jane Hunter.

Photo courtesy of Paul Campbell.

The Big Art Show, Paisley

The Big Art Show, the largest open exhibition to take place in Paisley, opened on 26 August 2022.

I am thrilled to have had three paintings from my most recent collection selected for the show.

‘Sea-salt skin’

‘Concealed/Revealed’

I was also blown away to win the ‘Best in Exhibition’ prize for ‘A collective embrace’ !!!

‘A collective embrace’

We had a great evening at the opening, amazing to see such an open and inclusive exhibition in my home town. Thank you so much to Outspoken Arts, Art Paisley and The Paisley Centre, who sponsored the prize.

The exhibition runs until 26th November 2022 at The Art Department in Paisley Town Centre.

Unmute - Society of Scottish Artists

I’m delighted to have had this painting ‘Reciprocity’ selected for the Society of Scottish Artists first physical exhibition of 2022, Unmute.

In collaboration with Dunoon Burgh Hall, the society are showcasing a selection of work by SSA members in a wide range of mediums.⁣
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The show runs from 17th June to 24th July at Dunoon Burgh Halls, 195 Argyll St, Dunoon PA23 7DD⁣
Opening Times: Wednesday to Sunday 10 - 4pm⁣
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There’s a link to the online viewing room here, but I highly recommend a visit to the physical show. ⁣
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We had a lovely evening at the opening, there’s such a wonderful range of work on display and beautifully curated. ⁣Huge thanks to the panel for selecting my work!

SURGE - Tatha Gallery x Visual Arts Scotland

I am delighted to be showcasing my work as part of SURGE, a new exhibition of work by VAS Members curated by Visual Arts Scotland and Tatha Gallery.

Featuring an array of art forms across the wide spectrum of disciplines that VAS champions, against the silvery Tay, this exhibition takes on a collective momentum in simpatico with the tidal swells of the local landscape and the general wave of growing optimism.

Lindsay Bennett and Clare Mackie of Tatha Gallery worked with a panel from VAS to select a varied selection of works that demonstrates the diversity of creativity that VAS represents.

SURGE is on display at Tatha Gallery, The Newport, 1 High Street, Newport-on-tay, Fife
9 October – 6 November 2021.

‘Low Tide’ Jane Hunter 2021

‘Early Morning Dip’ Jane Hunter 2021

Tatha Gallery is one of Scotland's leading contemporary art galleries. Located in a beautifully restored Georgian building known as The Newport, their unique and welcoming gallery has a strong focus on Scottish contemporary art; showing time-honoured, established artists alongside emerging talent. The artworks on display, along with their stunning location, makes a recipe for interest, excitement and excellence.

‘The Rush’ Jane Hunter 2021

Jane with her paintings on preview night

SURGE is on display at Tatha Gallery, The Newport, 1 High Street, Newport-on-tay, Fife
9 October – 6 November 2021.

making waves

“Making Waves” - a beautifully curated exhibition of art and craft by local makers and those inspired by the coasts and waters of Scotland.

The Barony Centre, West Kilbride Scotland 2020.

pier 1

40 x 40cm acrylic on board

pier 2

40 x 40cm acrylic on board

shore line

30 x 30cm mixed media on handmade paper

and being, and seeing

30 x 30cm mixed media on handmade paper

away for home we head 1

12 x 30cm mixed media on handmade paper

away for home we head 2

12 x 30cm mixed media on handmade paper

just to be, here

60 x 60cm mixed media on canvas

Opening of the show