Thursday 22 December 2011

News update from the AB+ Cultural Conference

If you haven’t signed up (by e-mailing aberdeen.positive@gmail.com) then hopefully this update will convince you that this is a conference not to be missed. An opportunity for your voice to be heard in driving the future of the arts and culture in Aberdeen.
We’re pleased to report that our main speakers have confirmed their attendance. Charles Landry, an authority on urban futures and the use of creative approaches to enable cities achieve farsighted aims, will be joined by Valerie Watts, Chief Executive of Aberdeen City Council and Professor Paul Harris, Head of Gray’s School of Art.

Valerie will be describing her experiences in Northern Ireland with Londonderry’s bid to become European Capital of Culture and the impact this had on the arts there, whilst Paul will talk about bringing the V&A to Dundee.

Of course, whilst the speakers are important, the vital element will be your participation in the two workshop sessions and we’ll have more details of these – and the subjects to be discussed – in the new year.

Some people have been asking us what time the conference starts and finishes. The answer is 9.15 for coffee and registration for a 10.00 a.m. start and close of business at 5.00 p.m. although there will then be an hour’s social and a glass of wine for those that want to network. We’ll bring you further news about the conference nearer the time, but in the meantime, could you please complete a short survey, regardless of whether you intend to come to the conference or otherwise?

The survey can be found at http://positiveaberdeen.wordpress.com/questionnaire . You should choose whether to answer as an individualor on behalf of an organisation (NOT both please!). The survey results will help us plan exactly how the conference runs so if you could please please please complete the survey by the end of the year, that would be very helpful. Thanks in anticipation of your co-operation!

Finally, if you haven’t signed up for the conference, the e-mail address again is aberdeen.positive@gmail.com.
Best regards,

Thursday 17 November 2011

Aberdeen Positive (AB+)

AB+

… an invitation to the forthcoming Aberdeen Positive (AB+) Conference which will take place on the 26th of January 2012 at Aberdeen Arts Centre.

This conference is the idea of a group of arts organisations and practitioners working in Aberdeen and the wider region with the overarching aim of making a ‘step-change’ in the cultural life of the city. We want this conference to celebrate what we currently do well and to challenge us to improve, to think big and ultimately help identify the steps we need to take to reach our ambitions.

Further info

Further details about the conference and booking details are contained in the invite letter (download from here) – please feel free to pass this letter of invitation on to colleagues and contacts who are interested developing the cultural life of this area.

If you have any problems opening the invite please contact aberdeen.positive@gmail.com

Tuesday 8 November 2011

NEOS CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR @ BV

For the third year Bridge View Gallery is offering craftspeople and maker members of NEOS the opportunity to set up a stall at the opening of their Christmas show on 1st December. (6-8pm)
I would like to invite you to take part in the fair. Tables are booked on a first come basis and space is limited so early booking is essential .

Once again a booking fee of £5 will go directly to NEOS funds for the next years event.

Set up will be the afternoon of Thursday 1st December

Commission of 35% with 10% going to NEOS funds
 
I do hope you will consider taking part as this helps keep NEOS and the individuals participating in the public eye throughout the year.

book your place by contacting francescrawford@yahoo.co.uk
www.bridge-view.co.uk

Frances Crawford Art
Art Leasing Consultancy
Allathumpach
Glen Deskry
Strathdon
AB36 8XL
tel: 01975651719

Thursday 8 September 2011

Ythanvale Art Trail

As Part of your North East Open studios 2011 tour, experience the Ythan Vale Art Trail and enjoy a diverse range of art from over 20 North East artists; whilst exploring the delightful scenery of the river valley and coastal villages or this beautiful corner of Aberdeenshire.


NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

SSW NEOS times

SSW opens the doors for NEOS


The Lost Hand



September 10 to 18, 2011

As part of NEOS (North East Open Studios), Scottish Sculpture Workshop are running a series of events around the theme of arts and heritage craft skills. Over the eight days members of the public are welcome to come and view our unique facilities, take part in discussions, tours, and workshops; enjoy a cup of tea in our drop in cafe, as well as view our invited participants at work around the SSW site.

Invited artists, tradesmen and craftsmen from throughout Aberdeenshire, with skills that are considered exceptional, will be showcasing their craft on site at SSW. With a focus on skills that are inherently local, SSW is looking to open up a discussion about the relevance of these skills to the identity of Aberdeenshire and wider Scottish culture, while also looking into the future of craftsmanship.

From kilt making to stone work, from wheel writing to sign writing, what is the future for these skills and processes? How can they be preserved? How are they utilised and can they be utilised in the creation of art works? SSW are looking to find the common ground shared by all these craftsmen, and artists, through networking, discussion and a shared workspace of tools and processes.


Programme of Events

September 10 to 18, 2011


Saturday 10th

Art Cafe – 5 to 7pm
"The Lost Hand: Questions around skill."
In the informal environment of a pop-up cafe, a discussion around the status quo of skill will bring together artists, crafts and trades people, as well as the general public.
FREE

Sunday 11th

Demonstrations and tours – 12 to 6pm
“The Lost Hand: Skills in residency”
A kiltmaker, a stone carver, a wheelwright, a traditional painter and decorator, a ceramicist, an upholsterer and many more will be working at SSW, giving an insight into current practices and skills in the region.
FREE

Monday 12th

Workshop – 1 to 4pm
''Printing Matters''
Lumsden primary school 4 to 7's will be exploring printing the old fashioned way.

Tuesday 13th

Art Cafe – 2 to 5pm
"Skilling Up: Creativity in new contexts"
In the informal environment of a pop-up cafe, a discussion around the status quo of skill will bring together artists, crafts and trades people, as well as the general public.
FREE

Wednesday 14th

Art Cafe – 2 to 5pm
"Space to speak"
In the informal environment of a pop-up cafe, a discussion around the status quo of skill will bring together artists, crafts and trades people, as well as the general public.
FREE

Thursday 15th

Closed to the public

Friday 16th

Reading Group SSW / Gradcam – 3.30 to 6.30pm
"The Skills as a kind of Commons" (Closed event)

Cheesecake Making Workshop – 6.30 to 7.30pm
(Please book with the SSW Office on 01464 861372, as there are limited places).
FREE

Saturday 17th

Forum/Discussion – 2 to 5pm
"A culture for the survival of skills, skills for the survival of a culture."
Chaired by David Watson Hood
Dr. Jo Vergunst (Anthropology Department - University of Aberdeen)
Andrea Peach (Grays School of Art)
An open discussion about the status quo of heritage craft skill, in social and economic terms (focusing on the Grampian region). Also looking at how these skills relate to and are used in contemporary art practice.
FREE (limited places)

Sunday 18th

Demonstrations and tours – 12 to 6pm
"The Lost Hand: Skills in residency"
A kiltmaker, a stone carver, a wheelwright, a traditional painter and decorator, a ceramicist, an upholsterer and many more will be working at SSW, giving an insight into current practices and skills in the region.
FREE

Communities Potluck Dinner – 5 to 7pm
Join us for a celebratory potluck. Participants must bring a dish, please contact Merlyn Riggs at merlynriggs@yahoo.co.uk to book a place as there are limited places.


Participants:

Skills in Residence: Ally Sim, Graham Sim, Pam Blackhall, Wayne Gosset, Keith Mellard, Eden Jolly, Nancy Fuller, Sally McLardy, Jennifer Jane, Ally Devine, Gavin Smith, Ian McDonald.

Art Cafe: Merlyn Riggs

Printing Matters Workshop: Ross Hamilton Frew

Forum/Discussion chair: David Watson Hood

Tuesday 6 September 2011

NEOS DeeTour Day!


A NEOS DeeTour Day - Monday 12th Sept

This year’s North East Open Studios (NEOS) promises to be the best yet with over 1,000 exhibitors. Founded in 2003 - NEOS has gone from strength to strength making it Scotland's largest open studios.
An award winning, not for profit collective of artists, makers and galleries in the North East of Scotland invite the public into their workshops to let them see how their work is created.
Art lovers have the chance to meet hundreds of painters, sculptors, metalworkers and print-makers during the event which runs from the 10th to the 18th Sept.

This year also sees the first organised NEOS tour, so that visitors can experience a day of NEOS on Royal Deeside. The event for 16 people has been specially compiled by DeeTour a newly formed company by Moira Gash and Sarah Harker.

Billed as a great opportunity to relax & enjoy the delights of a hand-picked selection of crafts and artists, the day tickets are priced at £35 and will include refreshments and a light lunch.
DeeTour is a new tour and excursion business based on Royal Deeside, and intends to offer a selection of packages to suit visitors and locals alike.

For more details on either DeeTour or to book tickets for the NEOS tour please visit www.deetour.co.uk or contact Sarah at The Butterworth Gallery on Tel 013398 86104.

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk

Hilary Duncan's NEOS Pottery Workshops

Hilary Duncan ~ Ceramics ~ Entry Number 75

Hilary will be holding some pottery workshops during NEOS to give people a chance to try throwing a pot on the wheel, and to hand-build a small piece.
There will be further workshops after NEOS for those wanting to decorate and glaze their pieces, or Hilary will do this for you for a small fee. Places are limited, so please phone early to book.

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Opening Invitation to NEOS @ Oriel Art

You and your friends are warmly invited to the
Opening of the North East Open Studios at
Oriel Art

6 to 9pm Wednesday 7th September (food & drink refreshments)
Continues daily to Sunday 18th September.
New work from Patricia Reith & Wilma Dunbar, plus many artists and crafts people.

Also: partake in the Art Workshop on Friday 9th September in aid of UNICEF
Looking forward to seeing you all again. 10% from sales to UNICEF


THERE ARE STILL 3 PLACES LEFT ON THIS WORKSHOP
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL, PLEASE PHONE:

Patricia Reith
Oriel Art, Barnyards,
Easterskene,
Westhill,
Aberdeenshire
AB32 6YB
Tel: 01224 743575

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September ~ Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Michael Kitchen venue

North East Open Studies (NEOS) 2011 - Change of Venue for Michael Kitchen

Michael has moved from Wood of Shaws and his paintings will be on display at Grayling’, 4 Links View, Inverboyndie, Banff.

Dates : From Saturday 10th – Sunday 18th September (except 14th - CLOSED). Timings : Daily 10am – 5pm except Sundays 2 – 6pm.

For enquiries and directions call : 01261 818855

Monday 5 September 2011

NEOS Yellow Signs ...

PLEASE HELP US HELP YOU!

We are very aware that this is EXTREMELY last minute, but due to various delays our road posters will be ready for collection from Wednesday 7th at Mill Farm, Kemnay, AB51 5NY (entry #121). As much as we need to get the posters to you all in good time before the 10th, the simple fact is that we cannot. So, we call to you, our members for your help and fantastic support!
If you could try to club together & arrange somebody in your area to volunteer to collect enough signs for your area, that would be amazing!
Please contact info@northeastopenstudios.co.uk to arrange pick up, or if you need any further help we will try to advise as best as we can.

NEOS covers a huge area, so please don’t be greedy and think of others too. Previous participants should have their signs from last year, if for some reason you need new, we have allowed for up to 2 signs per venue.
  • Aberdeenshire: New entries 3 signs
  • Aberdeen City: ONLY 2 signs per VENUE.. Not entries
If that is impossible & you don’t have any Yellow Signs, fear not! You can download the template from the website at www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk/downloads.asp, and simply print it off on yellow paper and laminate it!


SIGNAGE INSTRUCTIONS!

NEOS has worked very hard to build a good relationship with the Council’s Road Department to allow you to draw attention to your location by the use of our NEOS signage (the NEOS yellow signs). In order to ensure compliance with Aberdeen City & Aberdeenshire Council's rules on temporary signage for events please read below.

We have to point out that NEOS is not responsible for its members conduct and it is the individuals’ responsibility to adhere to the rules, as any action taken by the authorities for non compliance will be to individual venues and not NEOS.

A) Any signage on private property (in gardens, on houses, in cars) is permitted.
B) Signs on traffic signs, railings, and pedestrian crossings are NOT permitted. In fact, signs placed on any Road/Traffic Information furniture are considered a grave hazard and are illegal.
C) The Roads Department will advise their city and community inspectors not to remove NEOS signage if it is compliant with these instructions.

ABERDEEN CITY SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEOS SIGNS
Each location venue will be allowed to display one NEOS (A3 & no bigger) sign on each of a maximum of two street lamps - one outside their venue and one at their closest road junction (providing it is not a major junction).
1) The signs should be attached to the lamp post as high as possible. Preferably 2.4m above ground level.
2) Directional arrows drawn on the signs should be made as large as possible and the venue number MUST be recorded in the top right hand corner.
3) The signs can be put up 1-2 days in advance of 10th September and must be removed 1-2 days after 18th September.
4) NO banners permitted.
5) Signs not removed by the artists will be removed by Aberdeen City Council and the cost of removal will be charged to member.

ABERDEENSHIRE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEOS SIGNS
Each location venue will be allowed to display up to 4 NEOS signs (A3 & no bigger).
1) Directional arrows drawn on the signs should be made as large as possible and the venue number MUST be recorded in the top right hand corner.
2) The signs can be put up 1-2 days in advance of 10th September and must be removed 1-2 days after 18th September.
3) Signs not removed by the artists will be removed by Aberdeenshire Council and the cost of removal will be charged to member.
4) Please read the guidelines set out by Aberdeenshire Road’s Department at:
www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/roads/maintenance/GuidelinesonUnauthorisedSigns.pdf
Thank you for all your help and good luck with your show!

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Wednesday 31 August 2011

Pitscurry Public Art Project

On Saturday 10th September Pitscurry Environmental Project will be hosting a metal casting event and creating a public artwork for the garden as part of North East Open Studios.
Over the day we will be taking molds of hands and casting them in aluminium for an installation within the gardens.
Please come along and lend us your hands by contributing to the artwork. Learn how to make a mold and participate in a metal casting demonst...ration - for a donation of £10 to the project.

Artist Ginny Hutchison will be running two workshops, from 10am-12pm and 2-4pm.
15 places are available on each workshop, so please book ahead!

Also on Saturday 10th will be a woodcarving demonstration from artist Keiji Nagahiro, using both chainsaw and hand tools.

We have work on show and for sale, created by clients who attend the project, from drawings, prints and crafts, to bronze snails made in conjuction with SSW.

The project will also be open to the public from Monday 12th to Saturday 17th September, from 10am-3pm daily.

Entry is free, tea, coffee and cake available - we look forward to seeing you!

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

PVAF FORUM 2011

PVAF FORUM 2011
8th and 9th October 2011

Dear Artists,
We are delighted and quite proud to be able to invite you to attend another power-packed PVAF forum in October!
We have strived to continue with all the things we most enjoy about our events, including another Members' Exhibition, and in addition, this year we will be spending only the 1st day at the Birnam Institute before we burst free on Sunday for an exciting 'Out & About' programme commencing at Perth Museum and Art Gallery!
So... all you have to do now is:
1. Put the dates in your diary, in your smartphone and on your calender.
2. Read all the attached documents carefully:
  • Booking form
  • Forum Info (important!)
  • Forum Programme
  • Members' Exhibition Info
3. Print and fill out the booking form.
4. Send it and your cheque off to the address at the top.
5. Produce something you'd love to see in the always-great Members' Exhibition.
6. Dig out that box of unwanted art materials/catalogues etc that's cluttering up the spare room (see info sheet).
7. Tell all your professional artist/maker friends and direct them to www.pvaf.org.uk .
8. Get terribly excited and goosebumpy!
We are looking forward to seeing you there!
PVAF Committee 2011


NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Friday 26 August 2011

South Aberdeenshire Abstracts at Aberdeen Arts Centre


Art Show on the Path to Abstraction launches on Thursday evening, 1st September, 6 - 8pm and is open daily from 2nd - 26th September at Aberdeen Arts Centre, 33 King Street, Aberdeen AB24 5AA.

Ground-breaking work is the aim of an inspired collective of artists based in North East Scotland, and their new exhibition at Aberdeen Arts Centre will be their best yet. South Aberdeenshire Abstracts, SABAB, has invited some experienced friends from the art world to select their paintings to make a fine display for their latest show entitled Path to Abstraction.
It will run from 2nd September to 26th, including this year’s North East Open Studios (NEOS) - no. 244 in the free brochure that’s out now.

SABAB members Angela Arnold‚ Michi Clark‚ Gay Halley‚ Pam Hamilton‚ Janice Headrick‚ Julia Macaulay‚ Kate MacKenzie‚ Pauline Newman‚ Jacky Niven‚ Gregor Phillips and Bern Ross, are all keen artists who work independently and join together to put on abstract exhibitions whenever possible. They find the support and friendship within the group very helpful and one of their discussion meetings triggered the title for the show: Path to Abstraction.

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Claremont Studio Exhibition Invitation


Tracey Johnston is exhibiting new paintings inspired by Andalusia and hosting a series of creative workshops at Claremont Studio as part of North East Open Studios, 10-18th September.

You and your guests are invited to the launch party on Saturday 10th September, from 2-5pm where Tracey will be demonstrating the art of Suminagashi Monoprinting.

Creative Workshops:

Paper Marbling- Simple Suminagashi Monoprinting

Sunday 11th September, 2 to 4pm.
Tuesday 13th September, 2 to 4pm and 7 to 9pm.
Suitable for beginners, materials supplied and complimentary refreshments. £35

The word 'Suminagashi' translates literally as 'spilled ink' and centuries before the art of marbling paper was practiced in western cultures, Japanese craftsmen created patterns by floating ink on the surface of water and transferring it to a sheet of paper. Because the nature of water is ever changing and constantly moving, Suminagashi printers are viewed as great masters of control. Each monoprint is like a fingerprint - unique and unreproduceable.

This workshop will teach you the art of Suminagashi and you will produce many different monoprints to use for end papers and covers in our creative Bookbinding course or for other creative paper crafts at home.

Creative Bookbinding

Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th September, 2 to 4pm.
Suitable for beginners, materials supplied and complimentary refreshments. £35
Use your beautifully marbled papers as book covers and end papers in our Bookbinding Workshop.
In this workshop you will learn how to make your own folded keepsake book using various papers, book board and ribbon.

North East Open Studios runs this year from 10th to 18th September.
Claremont Studio is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.

For further information and to book a place on our Workshops please contact Tracey at the gallery: 01224 596999.

Follow us on Facebook!

Tracey's work can be viewed until 21st September.



NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Sunday 14 August 2011

Pushing Out the Boat – Issue 11 Call for Submissions

Deadine: 1st october 2011

Submissions of writing and artwork are invited for Issue 11 of Pushing Out the Boat, North-East Scotland’s acclaimed magazine of prose, poetry and visual arts. Subject to funding, Issue 11 will be published in late Spring 2012, with the possibility of an online version to follow.

WRITING:
Send up to three poems and/or up to two prose/playscript pieces in English, Doric or Scots.

ARTWORK:
Send up to three images (colour and/or black-and-white) of 2- or 3-dimensional work – including line drawings, illustrations, photographs, etc.

Submission is by email only: for details of how to submit your work go to the Pushing Out the Boat website at http://www.pushingouttheboat.co.uk/submissions

Successful entrants will receive a copy of the magazine and an invitation to read or display their work at the launch event to be held in late Spring 2012.

Make a Splash Training and Information Event

Aberdeenshire Arts Team would like to invite you to join us for a Training and Information event on Saturday 27th August, from 1pm to 4pm at Duff House, Banff.

The Make a Splash! information and training session is a two-hour workshop that will look at barriers to arts participation in Aberdeenshire and how to pull them down. We will also explore ways to spread the word about your activities and help grow your group. Run in partnership with Voluntary Arts Scotland, the Make a Splash! Programme is backed by a small grants fund
with awards from £250 - £2,000. Find out how you could encourage long-term participation in the arts by trying something new and be eligible to apply for a grant at the same time.

We anticipate approximately 30 people attending this event so places are limited to two members from each arts or community group.

If you'd like to chat to us about the programme, call the Voluntary Arts Scotland office on tel: 0131 225 7355 or email: makeasplash@vascotland.org.uk


NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Sunday 7 August 2011

2011 pick up points

The 2011 catalogues have now been distributed to the pick up points, so all members can get their allocation of 2011 catalogues.

full details can be found here (mailchimp newsletter sent 07/08/11) : http://eepurl.com/e87DM

the catalogue page has also been updated on the NEOS website http://northeastopenstudios.co.uk/catalogues.asp

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Monday 1 August 2011

Distribution of 2011 Catalogues

We have taken delivery of the 24,000 NEOS 2011 catalogues and are hurriedly getting them to the distribution points for areas of pick up around the whole of the north east of Scotland...

You might have seen some catalogues making a break for freedom, which is great - but fear not - if you are awaiting your allocation - an email will be issued very soon (this week) as to where and when to pick them up.

Be patient, and if you can help ship boxes to distribution points, please do get in touch.

info@northeastopenstudios.co.uk

Wednesday 27 July 2011

Holding the Heart - Experiential Writing Workshops

Experiential Writing Workshops

A year-long series of workshops based around the creative writing technique, Free Writing. These will nurture your individual creativity and encourage its expression through the exploration and sharing of your own unique story. We use visualisation, photography, artwork and music alongside other creative springboards.

Workshops: Fortnightly beginning Monday 22nd August ~ 7pm to 9.30pm

Fee: £80 per term (4 terms per year) Location: Corse House, Near Lumphanan AB31 4SB

Bookings: 013398 83411 or janislouden@btinternet.com

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Monday 18 July 2011

People of Our Time presents Macbeth

Can Mel Shand tempt anyone with whisky & shortbread, and, a GREAT looking production of Macbeth on this Saturday in Finzean?

Just a wee note to tell, prod or even remind you that you can buy tickets for this exciting show coming to the lovely Finzean Hall this Saturday. Whether it's the weather, or the holidays or the recession or a fear of Shakespeare this is something NOT to miss!!

So, do come along and support POOT (People of Our Time) if you can ~ and spread the word if you cant!) Tickets are only £8 & £6 ... AND it's got the chap from Raven! It is also cheaper than a night out with Harry Potter! You can get your tickets from Mel by ringing her on 01330 850674, or emailing her at: melshand.artist@gmail.com


NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September 2011, or visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Friday 10 June 2011

Guide (map) proofing now closed

Thanks to everyone whom checked their guide dots. The guide proofing process is now over.

A common "problem" arose when people searched in the "quicksearch" for their full name. The idea of the quicksearch is just that - to search quickly - meaning you can put in a portion of a text search - even a partial name ("Thomp") will return any name with "Thomp" in it.

We forgot to remind members that there is a "search" menu item - where entrants can be listed in alphabetical order (Search Surname) - or even "Surname ALL" will display every single NEOS 2011 entry...

The catalogue artwork is now being joined at the printers with the guide artwork - ready for printing - keep your eyes peeled for late July - early August for a fat square catalogue representing a lot of artistic and creative people in the North East of Scotland.

Friday 3 June 2011

NEOS 2011 Guide - ready for proofing

Dear 2011 members...

The NEOS 2011 guide (map) is now ready for proofing - after years of trying to place hundreds of dots, and occasionally getting one or two wrong, we've decided to get you (the members) to help us ensure that the dots are as close to the venue as possible...

so! check out http://www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk/proofMap.asp and find your dot (instructions on how to find your NEOS entry number on the page).

Tell your friends about it (if they are involved in NEOS) - just in case they don't get (or read*) the NEOS emails, read the blog, follow us on twitter, visit the NEOS website or are following us on facebook.

Yours,
The NEOS Team.

* - did you know that on average, only 48% of people getting the NEOS emails read them? - Mailchimp provide some very interesting statistics...

Friday 27 May 2011

Wall Space Offered to Artists!

Gary and Rebekah of Leaf & Bean a tea and coffee merchant in Montrose, will be opening on the 1st June and we'd love to showcase the work of artists from the North East on our walls with any sales made on a commission basis.

We feature many local products. Our coffee beans are roasted fresh locally, our preserves are made in Edzell, our artisan chocolates hail from Aberdeen and our heavenly fudge is handmade in Inverurie. Unfortunately, we couldn't find any local tea plantations....

If you are a North East artist and you are interested, then please send an email to suppliers@leafbean.co.uk. We are fitting the shop out at the moment, so email is the most reliable contact method and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.


NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Thursday 26 May 2011


There are a few places left on this FREE course so please share the information through your networks and book if yourself in. I've attached a PDF of the information for you to share.


ONLINE MARKETING FOR THE TERRIFIED

Friday 27 May, Dickson Hall, Laurencekirk, 10am – 4.30pm Admission free, booking essential.

Who is this for? Arts organisations, venues and creative individuals with little or no experience in web marketing and social media, who would like to become more confident in using the internet to grow their audiences. A fantastic opportunity to get free, practical training in online marketing in a friendly, informal environment.

For more information please don't hesitate to contact us: fionajack@ganeaudiences.co.uk tel: 01330-826522 (mon-fri 9.30-13.00) A beginners course in using Social Media and what makes a good website. Learn how to: - promote yourself online - use Facebook and other platforms effectively - make your website work well for you

http://ganeroadshowlaurencekirk.eventbrite.com



NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Tuesday 17 May 2011

Blairs Museum

Blairs Museum have been in touch and would like to call out to North East Artists...


Recently restored portrait of the young Bonnie Prince Charlie

We are already entered for the NEOS 2011 but would like to put out a call to
all artists that we are actually available as a venue for exhibitions all
year round as opposed to just that week. We welcome artists working with
different types of media, only mindful of the fact that as a Catholic
organisation it could not conflict with their policies. Previously, we have
had photographers, watercolourists and textile designers who use a large
display area at the back of a beautiful and ornate church. We are out of the
way (4 miles out on the South Deeside Road) but enjoy scenic and peaceful
surroundings.


Mary Queen of Scots costumes

We don't ask for a percentage of any sales, only a donation of a piece of
artwork which we can include in our annual raffle to raise money to keep the
museum open. As the curator is present all year round, weekdays between 0900
and 1500, the artist does not need to be 'in residence'. However, we would
welcome talks/working practice wherever possible.

Please contact Vikki Duncan, curator, on 01224 863767.
www.blairsmuseum.com



NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Wednesday 6 April 2011

Can anyone help these artists?

Photographer Andy Martin is looking for a venue (or a group of artists with whom to share a venue) in the Banff area for NEOS 2011.
Time is running short for making the NEOS registration deadline (5 days left) so if anyone is able to help Andy please contact Suzanne Edge (NEOS secretary) as soon as possible at suzanne@suzanneedge.co.uk

Julia Oliver is showing at Inchmarlo Golf Course club house and is looking for artists to join her. There is indoor and outdoor space available. Anyone interested can contact Julia by email info@eventmanage.co.za.

Don't forget that there's a chance to get help with your online applications from Phil and David at the registration event at The Loft (50 Cotton Street) between 12noon and 5pm - details in the blog below. Please shout if you need help in the last few days before the application deadline.


NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Monday 4 April 2011

Live sign up / QnA with CCS

NEOS are working closely with Creative Cultures Scotland to bring you an "open day" - at the Loft (50 cotton street) - where David Officer and Philip Thompson will be there from 12 noon to 5pm to answer questions, encourage people to join and participate in Scotland's largest and longest running open studios event.

There will also be a PC there, connected to the internet so people can join up there and then.

So! if you have always want to know more about NEOS, but were afraid to ask, then this is the event for you! If you are coming to use the free "sign up", why not bring a print quality image too (on a removable drive or SD memory card)!

here's a map to the CCS head quarters (50 cotton street)... we look forward to seeing you there!

The NEOS 2011 sign up deadline closes on the 12th of April - so this is a great chance for you to join, with a little bit of help from Phil and Dave.

Friday 25 March 2011

NEOS 2011 deadline mentioned on STV

Great news! the NEOS 2011 application process was mentioned on STV!

Deadline closes on the 12th of April 2001, create an account and complete your entry via :

REMEMBER TO READ THE INSTRUCTIONS!

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Tuesday 22 March 2011

Creative Cultures Scotland - Free Directory

http://www.creativeculturescotland.co.uk/join/

Creative Cultures Scotland is a charity set in the North East of Scotland to help promote and showcase creative individuals, groups and organisations.

They run a directory (free to join) that gives you space to upload as little or as much information as you want to share / showcase. There is also a facility to link 3rd party content (blogs, twitter, youTube, flickr, soundcloud etc).

It's primarily there to showcase the breadth and wealth of talent from the North East of Scotland in one place... so help them help you prove that the North East is a vibrant and creative place to live and work.


Thursday 17 March 2011

Visions Photography Club meeting

“Visions Photography Club” based in Ruthrieston Community Centre will be having their first meeting at 19:00 Thursday 31st March.

They “aim to build confidence, share skills and when fully established, organise photography outings and exhibitions.” and will be setting up social media pages and a Creative Cultures Scotland page very shortly.

If you would like to join, or find out more, please contact Gaia Photography’s – John Rutherford : ruddy_rutherford@btinternet.com

"The Next Step" [Workshop]

This workshop helps you take stock of your established* business, review your achievements, consider options for development, kick start new plans, and renew motivation.
“…good thought provoking stuff which will help in my future plans.”
The Next Step workshop participant
What to Expect
The workshop includes exercises and plenty of discussion to help you examine the things that you are passionate about, those you are the best at and those that make financial sense for your future.
You'll do one short exercise before the workshop to help focus your thinking and start the reflective process. This paper exercise will establish the skills, relationships, profile and rewards that connect your experiences to date and support your future choices. You’ll start by discussing your journey to date and the options that lie ahead.

What You'll Get Out of It
Reassurance, clarity, confidence and greater understanding of how to progress the next stage of your business by identifying;
  • the values which are indispensable to you and your business
  • what changes could help you utilise time and money more efficiently
  • what you want to consolidate or eliminate in order to move your business forward
“Was a really good experience even for the fact of meeting up with other creative individuals in the same boat. Reassured that I am still on the right track even if I don’t yet have a lot of the answers”
“Learned how to clarify my activities against time spent and income generated. These exercises will help me focus my business plan”
“Began to explore what my real desires are in what I want to do against what I could achieve and generate a decent income”
“Financial efficiency will be my new favourite phrase”
How to book
This workshop is free but we do request a £10 refundable deposit to secure your place.
Spaces are limited so booking is essential. To reserve a place, please emailevents@culturalenterpriseoffice.co.uk or call 0844 544 9990, unless stated otherwise.

*This workshop is aimed at individuals who have been running their business for 3 or more years.
Disclaimer: The event organisers may take photographs at this event and reserve the right to use any photos taken. They may be used in marketing materials, appearing either in printed documents or on related websites. Your consent of this condition is appreciated and will assist in the promotion of future events. Your attendance signifies your acceptance of these terms and conditions.

Forthcoming Workshops Are Listed Below

If you would like to be notified when future workshops are scheduled please emailevents@culturalenterpriseoffice.co.uk

Aberdeen - The Next Step
in partnership with Creative Cultures Scotland

Tuesday 22 March 2011, 13:00-16:45

Small World: how are you connected? [Networking event]

Small World: how are you connected? event in Aberdeen on Tuesday 22 March [6.00 - 8.00pm] of interest. Ink Evangelist Johanna Basford will be contributing to the event.

Further details are below and can be found on our website.

Small World: how are you connected? in partnership with Creative Cultures Scotland

Tuesday 22 March 2011, 18:00-20:00, Aberdeen Arts Centre

If the event is of interest please call / email to find out further information and to book.

Tuesday 15 March 2011

Could your business win a Grampian Award?

The Grampian Awards for Business Enterprise seek to encourage and reward entrepreneurial businesses and individuals.

Now, more than ever, is the time to shine and send out a positive message about your business.

The Grampian Awards are now open for entries to small and medium sized businesses in Aberdeen City and Shire.

The Grampian Awards are your chance to show everyone - investors, customers, suppliers and staff - that your business is an outstanding business.

If you think that your business could be a winner, register now at:

www.grampianawards.com

Closing date for registration: 31st March 2011

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Closing date for registration: 31st March 2011
NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Monday 7 March 2011

Are You Ready?

The on-line application for NEOS 2011 is now LIVE!

Please visit http://northeastopenstudios.co.uk/createaccount.asp and follow all the instructions there!

We are ready ... are you? 10 Top Tips for making your entry!
  1. Think about the benefits of having your own entry, even when holding a group Open Studios. This will help make you accessible all year to potential clients/audience.
  2. Do read the newsletters .. there will be important NEOS information in them!
  3. Really think about your image .. and how it best sells YOU!
  4. Please make sure your image is named IDENTICALLY to your entry name, when you send it to us.
  5. Practice your wording and think about how best it raises your profile.
  6. Very important! YOU are responsible for YOUR entry. Get a friend to proof read your entry.
  7. Think about how people will find you from your directions, why not do a dummy run yourself?
  8. Send your payment promptly please, made payable to North East Open Studios.
  9. On the reverse of your cheque please write your entry name IDENTICALLY to your entry.
  10. Proof read the map when we send it out for proof reading!
We have changed the index page on the NEOS website .. so you can keep an eye on what is happening at a glance .. why not bookmark it and then you can find the page instantly & make your searching a bit more easy!
If you have any questions, need to find a venue or any news you would like to share do check out the committee and get in touch!

Please don't forget to keep checking the web site , the news page, the NEOS Blog, our Facebook page as well as twitter too!

the deadline for Entries is the 12th of April 2011 - tell your friends! spread the word!

Friday 4 March 2011

Contributions are invited for a photographic installation/exhibition

Contributions are invited for a photographic installation/exhibition in The Lang Byre Gallery in may 2011.

The Redsuit Project was conceived in 2009 and presented initially in 2010 at Left Bank Gallery in Tarland, Aberdeenshire by artist Janet McEwan, who asked a number of people, including amateur photographers and professional artists, to take a disposable red coverall and photograph it in a place of their choice.

The performative, playful and poetic images taken in places near and far, encourage us to reconsider where and how we position ourselves within the worlds around us.

The project is now calling for more participants: to respond to the Redsuit theme, and help create an evocative group artwork which will be installed in the Lang Byre Gallery throughout May.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

  1. Get your redsuit!
    Red coveralls can be purchased from the Woodend Barn reception desk for £5, or by contacting the project email address below, to arrange a postal delivery.
  2. Take a photograph featuring a redsuit.
    If the red coverall is worn as a ‘costume’, the identity of the wearer must be concealed, e.g. photographed from the rear. The redsuit can also be placed as an object, within the photograph: e.g. see lower image on left. The image should be landscape format. A short accompanying text is requested, but is not essential.
  3. Send your image(s).
    Please email a high-resolution digital copy (at least 300dpi) to redsuitproject@yahoo.co.uk. You can send up to 5 images. There is no entry fee. Janet McEwan will be responsible for selection, printing and presentation of all images. All print costs will be covered by the project. Prints will not be for sale unless with prior agreement with the photographer.
  4. Come to the exhibition preview on May 1st!
    All participants will be invited to the exhibition private view.

KEY DATES

Mon. 18th April – Final date for receiving images.

Sun. 1st May – Exhibition Preview 6pm – 8pm.

Thurs 26th May – Last day of exhibition

http://janetmcewan.com/#/the-redsuit-project/4548993548

Thursday 3 March 2011

Hospitalfield house Open Day

The Visitors open Day on the 13th of March at Hospitalfield house is coming together. So far we have the following arts & crafts participants ...

Taisir Gibreel’s
www.taisirgibreel.co.uk

Hatti Pattisson
www.hattipattisson.com

Just Gems
www.just-gems.co.uk

Springfield Creative Arts
www.franmarquis.co.uk

Tessa Mendez
www.feltunique.co.uk

Belinda Rose
www.belindarose.co.uk

Sheenagh Young
www.angusopenstudios.com/memberPage.htm?Sheenagh%20Young

Maralyn Reedwood
http://www.redcastlepottery.co.uk/

Wednesday 2 March 2011

Blairs Museum call for NEOS


Blairs Museum is looking for artists to exhibit in September for the Open Studios, in particular they are looking for ceramicists, jewellers and textile designers. If you are interested please contact Vikki at: curator@blairsmuseum.com
or telephone 01224 863767

EXHIBITION SPACE AVAILABLE AT THE ABERDEEN WALDORF SCHOOL, Craigton Road, Cults.

We are delighted to announce that we have decided to enter our school into NEOS this year. Along with our own exhibition of the children's work we would like to invite artists to join us this year.

The exhibition will take place in our large gym hall. We will open for both weekends with a cafe and some music, and hopefully some demonstrations by some of the artists. We will also probably open for a couple of afternoons during the week, but this can be open to negotiation if people collectively feel that more open time is required.

Our own exhibition is going to be hopefully a piece of art from every child within the school. So excluding Kindergarten that should be 79 pieces, so 79 families should be the starting audience. This will consist of painting, handwork, woodwork, dressmaking, sculpture or anything else that the children have done. We may also have some communal art being done with the public, maybe one large painting. We also have outside space in our beautiful grounds for environmental art.

We are very excited about inviting you to join us this year. Our aim is to create a very lively, interesting time for all concerned.

If you are interested and want further information please contact Jane Ronie on 01224 730126 or email me : jane@kimberleynet.plus.com.

Thursday 24 February 2011

SSW - Creative Producer

A new opportunity has arisen at Scottish Sculpture Workshop for a Creative Producer. We are looking for a creative and dedicated individual who will work alongside the Director, contributing to strategic planning and marketing where this relates to the management and practical delivery of the programme. The Creative Producer will join our small dedicated team at a vital time in the development of SSW, as we build upon our national and international programming priorities.

Salary £22,000 per annum (Fixed Term: One Year)

For more information and an application pack, contact Kelly M. Anderson at kelly@ssw.org.uk


Closing date for applications is 5pm, Monday 7 March 2011

Monday 21 February 2011

Mel Shand at the Milton Art Gallery


Mel Shand will be exhibiting her work at the Milton Art Gallery, Crathes.
Exhibition Opening Saturday 5th March 11am to 1pm ~ all welcome!

Tuesday 15 February 2011

reminder of NEOS AGM

Just a quick reminder that the NEOS AGM is this Saturday (19th February 2010) at 10am in the Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen.

We'll be discussing several points, but mostly about how NEOS 2010 went - and how to get involved with NEOS 2011.

remember - bookmark the NEOS website - and keep checking for info - and tell your friends! (or people you know what to participate!) go on, you know you want to help us spread the word...

http://northeastopenstudios.co.uk/home.asp

Friday 11 February 2011

Woodturner Looking for Studio Space

Alastair McKenzie a local woodturner, based in Cults, is looking for a studio space for woodturning within a reasonable radius of this area. I would like to have access to the studio throughout the year and willing to share the running costs as appropriate.

Anyone who has any spare space, or if you know of anyone else who does, I would be grateful if they could contact me by e-mail at: turner@gotadsl.co.uk

NEOS 2011 AGM: 19th February at the Gordon Highlanders Museum from 10am - 12pm
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Thursday 3 February 2011

Catriona Millar Solo Exhibition



NEOS 2011 AGM ~ 19th February at the Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen 10am to 12pm. Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Tuesday 1 February 2011

Artist Required for Westhill Library Artwork Project

The new Westhill Library in Aberdeenshire has an indoor wall area that requires a contemporary, engaging and attractive artwork. This artwork is to be made by an experienced artist (or artists) working with pupils and students from the 4 cluster Primary schools and the Academy.

The piece will be displayed in a multi-use space and therefore the artwork(s) should be flexible and/or mobile. The piece(s) should have a local theme and be a focus for unifying the community. It might act as a visual ‘time capsule’ recording present day life in Westhill but might also take inspiration from the history of the area through collaboration with the Skene Heritage Group.
Given that the project is based in a library, it should have a literary content.

Project:
A visual artist will work with pupils/students in the identified schools and create a series of drawings. These drawings will be transcribed by the artist and made into finished artworks - for example10 original screenprints. Potentially, pupils from the Academy will assist the artist in making these pieces of work. The artist will render the pieces ready for installing in the space – for example he/she might frame the (A1) screenprints and these will be displayed in the library.

The artist will visit the schools on two occasions, the first will be with a writer/local historian who will introduce the theme to the pupils and will assist them in putting ideas/stories onto paper. The second visit the artist will go alone and develop the artworks. It is envisaged that the artist will engage the pupils in the creation of sketch books (learning logs) which will provide the project with good source material and a useful evaluation tool.
After the first visit pupils/students will be encouraged to photograph Westhill to a theme set by the artists; this will provide additional information for the drawing phase.

Material produced by the pupils will be presented to the library and will form an archive that can be displayed, stored and toured around the participating schools; it is anticipated that there will be a launch of the display in the library at which the artworks and supporting material will be displayed. It is intended that the project will inspire others to create artworks from the local environs and with this in mind the project could be revisited by the schools after the passing of several years to give a fresh take on the project (with new artworks).
The project is to begin as soon as possible with completion expected before the end of June 2011.

Fee:
A fee of £1,800 is available for this project, based on 2 days work at each of the 5 schools. Another £800 is available for creating and installing the artwork with £500 for materials.

Applications:

Please send a CV and brief proposal describing how you might approach the project and what artform you envisage working in to:
David Atherton, Arts Education Officer,
Education, Learning and Leisure,
Aberdeenshire Council,
Westburn Road,
AB41 6BL

Or david.atherton@aberdeenshire.gov.uk
Applications should be received by 5pm on Monday 14 February.

NEOS 2011 TBC, please visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Submissions sought for Banff & Buchan Arts Forum's exhibition

“Flotsam, Jetsam, Lagan and Derelict”
to be held as part of Banff and Macduff COAST Festival 2011 27th-29th May

Submission dates: Tuesday 12th to Friday 15th April 2011

An exhibition of work from high profile invited artists exhibited anonymously alongside a juried open submission. All work will be offered for sale at a fixed price. Submitted work to fit a standard format of a wall mountable piece no more than 12”x12”x4” in size, all primary materials used in the construction of the work, including the support and frame, if any, must be found, foraged, recycled, salvaged, homemade or reclaimed. The exhibition hopes to highlight issues of sustainability, environmental degradation and our concepts of value.

For further details and to download the full artists brief & entry form go to:
www.coastfestival.org.uk
or www.bbaf-arts.org.uk

or email
COASTexhibition@twocrows.co.uk


NEOS 2011 visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Monday 31 January 2011

North Kincardine Public Realm Master Plan Project

Inspiring Community Engagement leading to permanent public art features in the area

Aberdeenshire Council wishes to appoint an experienced public artist whose practice includes a strong element of community socially engaged work. From the information gathered from the community the artist will work with North Kincardine Public Art Group to create a programme of creative interventions and create an innovative public art masterplan for the area.

Deadline: Tuesday 15th February
For the artist’s brief and for further information please contact:

Marie Shaw, Arts Development Officer (South),
Education, Learning & Leisure,
Viewmount, Arduthie Road,
Stonehaven,
Aberdeenshire AB39 2DQ

Tel: 01569 768353 Mobile: 07825 721419
Email: marie.shaw@aberdeenshire.gov.uk

A brief can be down loaded from
www.aberdeenshirearts.org.uk

Sunday 30 January 2011

Outside Overview by Alex Kay and Susie Hunt

An Exhibition of Contrasting Landscapes

You are invited to a preview on Sunday 27th February 2-4pm
Exhibition open until 29th March 2011

Open daily 10am - 4pm (except during workshops and private events) Sundays 1-4pm

at Lang Byre Gallery, Woodend Barn, Burn o' Bennie, Banchory AB31 5QA 01330 826520

Wednesday 12 January 2011

Creative Cultures Scotland "Best of 2010"

Creative Cultures Scotland are running a Poll to find out what the "best cultural events of 2010" were for the North East of Scotland... perhaps you'd like to nominate NEOS?...

to enter your favourite event (whatever it is!) - please visit : http://polldaddy.com/s/0043028E2F8DAE64 and let them know.

NEOS AGM 19th February 2011

19 February · 10:00 - 12:00

Location:
Gordon Highlanders Museum
St Luke’s, 16 Viewfield Road (AB15 7XH)
Aberdeen, United Kingdom

A fantastic chance to meet the NEOS committee, fellow artists, hear about NEOS 2010 news, it's plans & dates for 2011, as well as an opportunity for networking too. The GHM will be laying on tea, coffee and yummy scones to tempt you along!
NEOS is Scotland's largest Open Studios showcasing a wealth of talent, from amature to professional. NEOS is a platform for the arts in Sepetember, giving Audience and Practitioner alike the ability to interface and connect.

If you think you might like to help NEOS'11 and would like to join the NEOS team, please get intouch by emailing emma@plaform22.co.uk
or, do you know anyone who would like to hear more about this event or would like to become a new NEOS member? Please forward this invitation to them ~ thank you!

We look forward to seeing lots of you there.

FACEBOOK invite : http://www.facebook.com/waspsstudios?v=info#!/event.php?eid=169104396468130&notif_t=event_invite