I have recently re-joined DCA print studio in order to use their laser cutter and add some Lewis inspired prints to my “Medicinal Nature” series of prints. A collection of laser engraved prints of everyday plants and shrubs that are believed to have medicinal properties.
I started this series of prints in 2019 when I lived in Edinburgh, inspired by my life-long interest in alternative health and belief in the healing power of the natural world. Little did I know then, I would end up moving to the Isle of Lewis and living much closer to nature and in a community with a strong history in herbal medicine. These prints were first shown together as a series in 2019 in my solo exhibition at House of an Art Lover, which was an exhibition prize from the Society of Scottish Artists.
I am delighted to have been made one of the Western Isles Satellite Associates for the SSA this year. Having lived in Edinburgh for most of my adult life, I kind of grew up artistically showing in Open Submission exhibitions such as the SSA, VAS and RSA. They are a great way to introduce your work to peers and new audiences. When I lived in Edinburgh, it was always just a short drive to drop artwork off for Open Exhibitions, if I was selected. Now I am living on the isle of Lewis it is a much bigger job logistically to do this, and I am committed to encouraging artists on the island to submit to the SSA Annual and the many other great exhibiting opportunities this historical, artist-led organisation offers. There are so many very talented artists here on Lewis and it is important they are represented in these national exhibitions.