It is rare that one gets the opportunity to be involved in a project that has the potential to reach well beyond the scope of their own artistic practice and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. All artists dream of making a lasting impression on the world through their work, but the sad reality is that most live in relative obscurity, their contributions fading after they’re gone. Only a select few leave a significant mark on the creative landscape of their times.
So, when Ross Poole approached me early last year to ask if I would consider working with him on a new project to support emerging artists in Scotland, I was immediately interested—if a little puzzled as to why he wanted me to be involved.
The Birth of the Scottish Contemporary Collective
Ross is not the kind of person you would immediately tag as a potential mover and shaker in the Scottish art world. A working-class guy who overcame the disadvantages of his youth to build a life as a successful businessman, he is as down-to-earth, unpretentious, and big-hearted as they come. Despite making his living selling and installing fireplaces, his first and greatest love has always been art.
I first met Ross at the awards ceremony for the Scottish Prize for Fine Art in 2023, where he personally funded the main prize. It was there that the seeds of the Scottish Contemporary Collective were sown. Seeing the raw talent on display that evening, and speaking to artists about their struggles, made him realise that simply donating prize money and collecting art wasn’t enough—he wanted to create something that would have a lasting impact.
And so, he bought a gallery.
This summer, Tighnabruaich Gallery will relaunch with a bold new vision—one that places emerging artists at the heart of everything we do. Every three years, a cohort of young artists will be selected to receive direct support, including exhibition opportunities, residencies, mentoring, technical workshops, and financial assistance.
The inaugural cohort features four exciting young artists who were introduced to Ross through the Scottish Prize for Fine Art:
- Kirstin MacKinnon (Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design)
- Vlada Popescu (Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design)
- Eva Hewitt (Glasgow School of Art)
- Innes MacLellan (Gray’s School of Art)
These artists will benefit from long-term mentorship from four core mentors:
- Ade Adesina (Printmaking)
- Dale Bissland (Painting)
- Denise Findlay (Painting)
- Myself – Lewis MacKenzie (Painting)
Our role is to help guide, support, and equip these artists as they transition from graduates into professional practitioners. Our exciting art journey is just infolding.