Local Talent in the Spotlight: Stockbridge's Celebration of Scottish Creativity
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's Stockbridge art district, Graystone Gallery has established itself as a vital platform for contemporary Scottish artists, balancing a showcase of established names with emerging talents through its ambitious exhibition programme.
The gallery, which hosts a large number of exhibitions annually at 52 Hamilton Place, has become a cornerstone of the local art scene with its carefully curated catalogue of shows. Its approach of presenting both solo exhibitions and thoughtfully curated group shows creates a dynamic environment where artistic traditions evolve through fresh perspectives.
The gallery believes in creating conversations between different generations of Scottish artists. Each exhibition is curated to highlight these connections while celebrating the distinctive voice each artist brings to contemporary Scottish art.
May & June Exhibition Highlights the Coastal Influence on Scottish Art
The gallery's current exhibition, 'Time & Tide: A Solo Show by Kerry Souter' (running until June 8th, 2025), exemplifies the gallery's commitment to showcasing distinctive Scottish artistic voices. Souter's mixed-media paintings evoke the Scottish coastline, using texture, colour, and abstraction to mirror nature's rhythms and patterns.
This isn't Souter's first feature at the gallery: her previous exhibition 'A Kiss of the Sea' in 2024 demonstrated her ongoing abstract exploration of coastal themes. The current show deepens this investigation, offering a contemplative exploration of nature, memory, and the passage of time through her distinctive artistic lens.
The exhibition presents a compelling case for how the Scottish landscape continues to inspire contemporary artists, who interpret familiar scenes through innovative techniques and perspectives.
Spring Exhibition Celebrated the Diversity of Scottish Artistic Approaches
Earlier this season, the gallery presented its 'Spring Exhibition: A Sunlit Reminder of Warmth to Come' (April 10 – May 4, 2025), a group show that embodied the gallery's philosophy of showcasing multiple artistic voices in conversation with each other.
This vibrant exhibition followed 'Worlds in Colour: A Vivid Exploration of Art and Imagination' (March 7 – April 5, 2025), which featured bold, expressive works that demonstrated the diversity of contemporary Scottish art beyond traditional landscape representation.
The early months of 2025 also saw 'Palettes and Perspectives: Natural Beauty Through Unique Lenses' (January 31 – March 2, 2025), a thematic exhibition exploring how different artists interpret the natural world through their individual artistic approaches.
Showcasing the Range of Scottish Artistic Talent
The gallery represents over 60 contemporary artists working across various mediums and styles. From the atmospheric urban landscapes of Leon Anderson and Wendy Davidson to the textural coastal scenes of Kerry Souter, the gallery offers a comprehensive view of Scotland's vibrant contemporary art scene.
Other notable artists in the gallery's roster include Fanny Arnesen, known for her ethereal abstract works; Rosanne Barr, whose landscapes capture the distinctive Scottish light; and Poppy Cyster, whose vibrant abstracts often reference natural forms and patterns. The gallery's ceramics collection features exceptional work from artists like Adrian Bates, David Binns, and Jo Gifford, demonstrating how Scottish artistry extends beyond canvas to functional and sculptural three-dimensional forms.
Beyond Traditional Exhibition Spaces
Graystone Gallery has expanded its reach through innovative partnerships, including collaborations with the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel. Recent hotel exhibitions have included 'Pieces of Home' by Gill Knight (October 2024 – February 2025) and 'Dapper Dogs & Downtown' featuring Leon Anderson and Wendy Davidson (June – October 2024).
These satellite exhibitions extend the gallery's influence beyond Stockbridge, introducing Scottish contemporary art to new audiences in unexpected settings. On top of that, the gallery's 2024 programme included participation in the Edinburgh Art Fair, further demonstrating its commitment to promoting Scottish art through various platforms and contexts.
Stockbridge as a Cultural Hub
Graystone Gallery's dynamic exhibition programme contributes to Stockbridge's growing reputation as a cultural destination within Edinburgh. The district, known for its independent businesses and village-like atmosphere, has developed a concentrated art scene that attracts visitors throughout the year.
Stockbridge offers the perfect environment for engaging with art in a less intimidating setting than larger institutions. The walkable nature of the district encourages visitors to explore multiple galleries and discover diverse Scottish artistic voices.
The gallery's location at 52 Hamilton Place places it within walking distance of other cultural attractions, creating natural foot traffic from both local residents and visitors exploring the area.
Building Relationships Between Artists and Collectors
Beyond the exhibition schedule, Graystone Gallery has developed a reputation for fostering meaningful connections between artists and collectors through its regular programme of artist talks, demonstrations, and private viewings.
The gallery believes art appreciation deepens through understanding the creative process and artistic intention. Their events programme creates opportunities for collectors to engage directly with artists in comfortable, approachable settings. This approach has proven particularly effective in supporting emerging artists, creating platforms where their work can be discovered by collectors who might initially visit to see more established names represented by the gallery.
Looking Ahead to Summer and Beyond
As spring moves into summer, Graystone Gallery will continue its commitment to showcasing Scotland's artistic talent. Following Kerry Souter's solo exhibition, the gallery will introduce new shows that maintain its balance of established and emerging voices.
As Graystone Gallery continues to develop its exhibition programme, its commitment to balancing established and emerging Scottish talent remains central to its mission. Future plans include expanding its digital presence to reach wider audiences while maintaining the personal approach that has defined its physical space.
Edinburgh has always been a city where artistic tradition and innovation coexist. The gallery's exhibition programme aims to capture that dynamic, celebrating Scottish artistic heritage while looking firmly towards its future.
With its thoughtful curation and commitment to artist development, Graystone Gallery has established itself as an important platform for contemporary Scottish creativity, contributing significantly to Stockbridge's cultural landscape.
Graystone Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm, at 52 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh. For more information about current and upcoming exhibitions, visit www.graystonegallery.com
Like this:
Like
Related
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
6 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Inside Iain Stirling's home that's worlds away from Love Island villa
Love Island's Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling lead a relatively private life when it comes to their family, but they have shared some glimpses of their quirky London home Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling have become one of the UK's most prominent and successful power couples in showbiz since their romance blossomed back in 2017. The Irish presenter Laura, 40, and her Scottish partner Iain, 37, have become household names across Ireland and the UK due to their joint hosting and narrating roles on the popular ITV2 dating show, Love Island. The couple tied the knot in 2020 after three years of dating, and a few short months later, they welcomed their first child together - a daughter named Stevie Rae. Despite both Laura and Iain, who is putting his knowledge to the test of The 1% Club for Soccer Aid, being well-known figures in the public eye, they maintain a relatively private life when it comes to their small family. However, former MTV presenter Laura has given fans and followers a sneak peek into their quirky North London home via social media, much to their delight. Always fashionable, Laura seems to have added several touches of her personal style to the décor of her North London home which she shares with husband Iain. Their stunning property exudes a bright and airy feel, with the stylish couple adding lots of unique designs, funky patterns, and vibrant colours to inject personality into their space. Laura and Iain previously gave a glimpse of their incredible back garden which features their very own pub. Named The Snug, the pub is equipped with a bar, shelves filled with alcohol and glasses, a couple of bar stools and Guinness on tap. The couple have also set up a delightful outdoor seating area on their decking, perfect for those idyllic summer days or when playing host to friends. Back in 2020, Laura gave her followers a sneak peek into their personal pub on Instagram, sharing: "Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name and they're always glad you came... The Snug EST 2020." During the lockdown, fans got a glimpse of the interior of their main house as Laura and Iain snuggled on their comfy sofa while featuring on Celebrity Gogglebox, giving viewers a peek at their life off-screen. Their opulent L-shaped sofa is ideal for relaxing evenings, complemented by eclectic wall art and a rug that adds a chic bohemian touch to the room. The dining area in Laura and Iain's home exudes a casual yet inviting atmosphere, with trendy low-hanging lights providing a contemporary edge. At the heart of their dining space stands an elegant wooden table, while a charming portrait of Laura's dog Mick adorns the wall, adding a personal touch. Leading from this area is a spacious open-plan kitchen, boasting pristine white cupboards, vintage-inspired tiles, and cheerful sunflowers by the sink, creating a homely vibe. The beloved pair first offered a glimpse inside their new home in 2019, with Iain capturing a moment of Laura across the table as they enjoyed their first meal of fish and chips in their new digs, fondly referred to as "The First Supper."
The Courier
8 hours ago
- The Courier
Tossing cabers and chasing kilts at Perthshire's Atholl Gathering
We've come to the Atholl Gathering, one of Scotland's most historic Highland Games, for a celebration of tradition, spectacle, and family fun. Blair Castle rises white and proud against the Perthshire hills, and its grounds are alive with kilts, cabers, and cannon fire. As a family with roots in Scotland but years spent elsewhere, we've always clung tightly to our heritage – none more so than on days like this. There's something deeply satisfying about being surrounded by tartan, cheering on pipers, and watching kilted competitors hurl logs in front of a castle. And with sunshine, cold rain, blustery wind and the promise of burgers, bouncy castles and a Highlander's dash, the day promised a classic 'four seasons in one day' Scottish adventure. We'd never been before, but its reputation as one of the more iconic Games intrigued us, especially since it's the only one in Scotland to feature a private army legally sanctioned by the monarch – the Atholl Highlanders, a ceremonial regiment that still marches under the command of the Duke of Atholl. The Gathering takes place on the beautiful Atholl Estates, stretching across some 145,000 acres of forests, rivers, and mountains. Blair Castle itself, all white turrets and baronial flair, has stood since the 13th century, and was once visited by Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. This place breathes history, and the Atholl Gathering honours it in a way that's very much alive. We arrived on a sunny-but-showery Sunday as he car queue wound its way through tree-lined lanes toward the castle. Once parked, the familiar scent of fried onions hit us: a sure sign the fairground was nearby. Our daughter Lily, eagle-eyed for anything inflatable, immediately clocked the bouncy castle. But first: the arena. A large flat expanse with a gently sloping hill to one side gave everyone a perfect view, and the white glimmer of Blair Castle peeked through the trees. Bagpipes filled the air as solo pipers competed nearby – one of many ongoing contests throughout the day. Having missed out on lunch from the Seafood Bothy (note to self: bring cash next year), we grabbed burgers and fries. Lily devoured her cheeseburger with gusto before dragging us, finally, to the fairground – bouncy castle, inflatable slide, and carousel were all tested thoroughly. One of the day's most impressive spectacles was the opening ceremony, marked by the firing of a cannon by the Atholl Highlanders. Lily, having confidently claimed she wouldn't jump at the bang, did – of course – jump. Then came the massed pipes and drums, marching in formation, a stirring, goosebump-inducing moment. Lily, inspired, planned to 'practice her drum' when we got home. We weren't quite as enthusiastic about that. We settled into the hillside to watch the heavy events – shot put, wrestling, and the one we'd waited for: the Highlander's Dash. I was told this foot race involved Highlanders sprinting down hills in full regalia; but it was a loop around the arena, and though it lacked the steep descent I'd expected, the energy was no less electric. Later, it was time for the family races. Lily, only three, was too young for the youngest category and distraught that she couldn't compete in the events she'd been watching all day. I tried to take her to the start line with the hope they'd make an exception, but she got shy halfway there and backed out, so I decided to step in for the adult races instead. Now, let me clarify: I thought this was a short sprint. Turns out, it was a full lap around the arena. Not ideal when you're in the '40s' category and wearing big boots. After missing the starting gun (chatting to a steward in a kilt – understandable distraction), I joined the race, overtaken by 30-somethings as I gasped my way to the finish. But I crossed it – proudly, breathlessly – earning Lily's applause and a valuable parenting win: showing up and joining in. Between the races, we stopped for coffee and churros, watched the Highland dancers on a nearby stage, and later, sought out our own little patch of grass for our own family races so Lily could win (every time). Before heading home, we wandered up to the Hercules Garden, a beautifully restored 18th-century walled garden with ornamental bridges, lily ponds, and classical statues. Once abandoned, it was brought back to life in the 20th century. As we explored, Lupins in full bloom, Lily – still riding high on our foraging tour from a previous visit – tried to eat every plant she could reach. We gently suggested otherwise. Back in the arena, the caber toss was in full swing – massive tree trunks hoisted and hurled with skill and strength. One competitor's failed toss prompted Lily's sage analysis: 'He hasn't been eating enough salad.' Her logic? 'Salad makes you strong.' She eats her salad, so it must be true. As the final rain of the day soaked us through, we bundled into the car, wet clothes discarded, heat blasting, and hearts full. The Atholl Gathering had delivered everything: history, hilarity, community, and a deep sense of connection – not just to Scotland, but to something older, prouder, and enduring. If you've never been, go. Bring your waterproofs. And bring cash. Burntisland Highland Games – Monday, July 21 Burntisland Links, Fife Recognised as the second oldest Highland Games in the world, Burntisland's event combines traditional athletic contests with modern attractions. Visitors can witness heavyweight events, Highland dancing, and solo piping, all set against a scenic coastal backdrop. Crieff Highland Gathering – Sunday, August 17 Market Park, Crieff Known as Scotland's leading Highland Games, this gathering offers a comprehensive program of events. From heavyweight competitions and Highland dancing to cycling races and massed pipe bands, the day culminates in the stirring Salute to the Chieftain Strathmore Highland Games – Sunday, June 8 Glamis Castle, Angus Set against the majestic backdrop of Glamis Castle,attendees can enjoy traditional heavy events, Highland dancing, and piping competitions, all within the castle's historic grounds. Pitlochry Highland Games – Saturday, September 13 Recreation Ground, Pitlochry Concluding the Highland Games season, Pitlochry's event is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and scenic location. The day includes traditional athletic events, Highland dancing, piping competitions, and a grand parade of pipe bands.
Glasgow Times
16 hours ago
- Glasgow Times
Glasgow pupil makes final of Scottish national joke contest
Hedi Hemin, a primary four pupil from Knightswood Primary, was among the finalists at the VoiceBox grand final, organised by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). The event saw 32 pupils from across Scotland take to the stage, each representing their local authority with a joke performed in front of MSPs, families, and supporters. Hedi Hemin (Image: Supplied) Thousands of jokes were submitted from hundreds of primary schools across the country. Glenn Carter, head of RCSLT Scotland, said: "While the event is full of joy and laughter, its purpose is serious. Read more: Scots are being offered physical 'rain cheques' to help keep their spirits up Nine men charged over mobbing and rioting before Partick Thistle game in Ayr Spider-Man 4 filming to take over Glasgow city centre this summer "Speech, language, and communication are essential skills that underpin a child's learning, relationships, and long-term opportunities. "VoiceBox shines a light on this by showing just what children can achieve when they're supported to express themselves." The competition aims to highlight the importance of early speech, language, and communication development, as well as the value of speech and language therapy. Ezra Pasifull, a Primary Three pupil from Oakbank Primary in Perth and Kinross, was crowned Scotland's funniest young comedian. His winning joke was: "I bought 10 bees but the beekeeper gave me 11 bees. "I asked him why there is an extra bee and he said, because that one's a 'Free Bee!" The final was hosted by Scottish Parliament Presiding Officer, Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP, and compered by BBC journalist and comedian Zara Janjua. Johnstone MSP said: "It was a pleasure to welcome so many young people from across Scotland to their Parliament. "Following a strong nationwide competition, I want to congratulate all our finalists. "The effort, imagination, and thought that went into their contributions was extremely impressive. "I'm pleased that once again the Parliament was able to support such a worthwhile competition.' The competition was held at the Scottish Parliament for the second year, following its launch on Blue Monday in January. Each of the 32 finalists received £100 worth of books from sponsors Collins Big Cat, with the winning school bagging £500 worth of books. The runner-up, Freya McVie Branley from St Winning's Primary School, and third-place winner, Craig Speirs from Shortlees Primary School, were awarded £200 worth of books for their schools. They also received toy gift cards, with the winner getting £100, second place £75, and third £50.
