Weddings, Wandering, and Unexpected Inspiration
The past week has felt slightly off-centre—though in the best possible way. What began as a disruption to my usual schedule quickly unfolded into something far more enriching.
My daughter got married, and I travelled to attend her wedding. It was a fairly spur-of-the-moment decision, leaving little time to prepare or plan. But, as it turned out, the timing couldn’t have been better. I had been in need of fresh input and inspiration, and this unexpected journey offered exactly that.
On my way, I stopped over in Glasgow and spent some time wandering the city. I found myself drawn to the tragic remains of the burned building!
“The huge blaze engulfed the B-listed Victorian building next to Glasgow Central Station on Sunday 8 March after starting in a vape shop on Union Street.”
While in Glasgow, I also visited Small Measures (6–28 March 2026), a print exhibition in Glasgow Print Studio . The show brought together a range of artists exploring the technical and aesthetic possibilities of small-format printmaking. What struck me most was the variety of processes on display—each piece demonstrating just how subtle, versatile, and powerful printmaking can be, even within limited dimensions. I left feeling deeply inspired, with new ideas beginning to form for Tapestry of Connection: Phase II.
The journey continued on to London, where I managed to visit exhibitions by Tracey Emin and Rose Wylie. It was genuinely exciting to see two older women artists at the forefront of international contemporary art. Their work, though vastly different in subject and style, was equally powerful and thought-provoking. Each exhibition offered a distinct perspective, yet both carried a strong sense of presence and authenticity.
Returning from this trip, I feel fully rejuvenated. What began as a disruption became a source of energy, reflection, and creative renewal—exactly what I needed.
Returning, Resetting, and Staying Flexible
Living on an island is something I value deeply—the space, the quiet, the sense of distance. But what I do miss is regular access to culture. Being able to see exhibitions, experience different environments, and feel part of a wider creative conversation isn’t something that happens easily here. Because of that, trips to the mainland feel essential. They give me connection, but also perspective—something I need to maintain clarity in my own work.
This recent trip was self-funded, and in many ways, necessary. I’ve come back feeling refreshed and reconnected with my practice.
Returning home is always a special moment. On the ferry back, I found myself surrounded by fellow islanders—it was warm, familiar, and grounding. There’s something about that shared sense of place that reminds me why I live here in the first place.
Yesterday (Monday) I shifted my focus back into work mode and spent the day planning my final workshop session with participants from the Daycare Centre. This week’s theme is Exploring Texture Through Print, Collage & Self-Expression. I’ve been preparing a range of materials, including handmade stamps created from found textures and lino cuts.
Some of the techniques I’ll be using have been introduced in earlier sessions. I’ve done this intentionally—through repetition and familiarity, I’ve seen participants grow in confidence. There’s something really important about revisiting processes, allowing people to feel comfortable enough to explore them in their own way.
Working with vulnerable adults also means staying open and adaptable. Flexibility isn’t just helpful—it’s necessary. I try to build that into everything I plan.
And, as expected, this morning brought a reminder of that. Just as I was about to leave, I received a call asking for the session to be postponed until next week due to an absent participant. It’s one of those things you learn to anticipate. These moments can be disruptive, but they’re also part of the rhythm of this kind of work.
So, I’ve rescheduled the workshop and will use the time to focus on other related work instead.
It feels, in a way, like a continuation of the past week —plans shifting, things moving slightly off-centre—but still productive, still meaningful.
Nicola Neate 