The phenomenology of belonging There’s no place like home, Toto, but what makes a place feel like home? When I arrived in Australia some 20 years ago I immediately felt at home in the landscape, and yet it’s a far cry from where I grew up in Scotland. I still think of Scotland as home … More Cianalas
It took three years to wean myself off the dopamine of social media likes and follows. I’m pretty happy I did. … More Creating without an audience
It’s about this time of the year when, even in a 35 degrees summer day in Australia, my inner Scotsman starts to bubble to the surface. As Hogmanay approaches I start getting all maudlin and nostalgic, and saying “aye” a lot instead of “yeah”. I used to love the Daft Days, that period between Christmas … More The Daft Days
In February I’m starting a painting project that I hope will help me unpack my sense of identity as a migrant to Australia from Scotland. This year-long project comprises a two-month period of immersive painting and solo wild camping across two landscapes that have shaped my identity: one month in the Scottish Highlands where I … More Landscapes of Belonging
I’m having an Open Studio on the 30th of November 2025 from 1pm to 4pm and you’re welcome to pop by if you’re anywhere near Ballarat … More Authenticity
Just finished another six days up in Halls Gap/Budja Budja, in the Grampians Gariwerd region. It’s a fantastic way to spend a week, surrounded by artists, and talking about nothing but art. Coming back to life on social media really points up the thinness of the online experience. It’s no substitute for yarning in the … More Art Workshop: Grampians Brushes 2025
art about place 