A tapestry of Connection Phase II

This week marked the second session of the phase II workshops – Collage, Layering & Surfaces.

Collage is a new technique for the men, and it adds another layer of choice. I prepared some backgrounds for them to respond to, alongside cut out printed imagery that they could use to make collages. From there, they began building their own pieces — mixing the prepared images with drawing, painting and stencils. It felt important to introduce something new while still anchoring it in more familiar ways of working, so they could experiment without feeling overwhelmed.

There’s a noticeable shift happening. As this is new territory, I’ll be repeating the process in the next few sessions to help build familiarity and confidence. I’m trying to gently expand their visual language — introducing new techniques while encouraging the freedom to make spontaneous drawings and paintings. That sense of permission to play is starting to grow.

We’re working in the beautiful Activity Room at the Grimsay Community Association — a peaceful, well-equipped space that feels perfect for these workshops. The room has a calm energy to it, and I think that’s contributing to how comfortable everyone is beginning to feel. They clearly enjoyed walking in and seeing their work displayed — that quiet sense of pride matters.

I’ve also started experimenting with some of my own photopolymer gravure printing processes, and I have a few exciting ideas brewing for where this could go next.

It feels like something is gently unfolding.

supported by Creative Scotland.