Reflection – Participation – Experiment & Exchange

What a pleasure it was to meet Neil Firth – Orkadian, Stromnasian and man of the world - and colleagues at the Pier Arts Centre in Stromness. I had not been there since 2006, when they opened their new gallery space and a group of us visited during the opening.

The afternoon long conversations were guided by the 16 Principles of transformative fieldwork. They lead us through the joys, successes and challenges from the beginnings of the collection donated by the author/peace activist Margaret Gardiner to the new venues developed today.

Linkshouse is a new arts residency in Birsay, the Old Post Office is to be developed the o deliver hospitality and education.

A special extra was to see the comprehensive 40 years of the Soulisquoy Stromness Printmakers show, which included new works by artists such as Colin Kirkpatrick and Magda Choluj.

Reflection – Participation – Experiment & Exchange are the guiding principles here.

A special treat was to visit the Orkney Furniture makers: https://www.orkneyhandcraftedfurniture.co.uk/. I am trying to save up for the ladies’ one.