Fine Art in Practice: Giving Voices to Our Communities

Our Art lecturers are experts in their fields, in this blog we explore two of their projects that give voices to our communities

At the heart of our Fine Art degree lies a commitment to not only fostering artistic talent but also engage with our communities in meaningful ways. This starts with our lecturers who, using their creative practices, address important social issues and bring people together. 

Lauren McLaughlin: IN OUR SPACES Exhibition

Lecturer Lauren McLaughlin recently showcased her work as part of the IN OUR SPACES exhibition, a project by Outer Spaces that delves into the complexities of hidden mental health challenges. This exhibition, inspired by the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival's 2024 theme IN/VISIBLE, is the culmination of a six-month commissioning project.

Lauren, along with other selected artists, received a £3,000 fee, access to a large studio/exhibition space, and support from the Outer Spaces team. This allowing them to host workshops with local communities and foster social connections through collaborative artistic practices. The resulting artworks were presented in the exhibition, highlighting the power of art to make the invisible visible and to give voice to those often unheard.

Lauren's work is deeply rooted in her commitment to social practice. As the founder of Spilt Milk Gallery CIC, a social enterprise supporting artists who identify as m/others, she continues to push boundaries and create spaces for important conversations. Her recent exhibitions and publications further underscore her influence and dedication to the arts.

Cat Meighan: Toll Film Pop-up Screening

Curriculum Team Leader Cat Meighan contributed to a unique mass participation artwork involving the carrying and ringing of folded-steel bells. Each bell was stamped with reflections on the COVID-19 pandemic from Highland communities and they travelled over 1500 miles across diverse landscapes. From misty highlands to bustling school playgrounds, these bells resonated with the experiences of loss, joy, anger, and peace.

The journey of the bells was captured in a visually and sonically explorative installation, the Toll film. This installation reflects on the Highland experience of the pandemic, celebrating spaces of community gathering and resilience and is a testament to the power of art in documenting and commemorating collective experiences.

Through their innovative and socially engaged practices, Lauren and Cat are not only creating art but also fostering connections and sparking important conversations. We are incredibly proud of their contributions and look forward to seeing how their work continues to inspire and impact those around them.