New Leith of Life
down at the docks
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Leith has been a vitally important Scottish port for centuries and although it’s now officially part of Edinburgh it does retain a distinct identity and culture, and fierce loyalty from Leithers.
It has seen massive changes over the last 3 decades, and we could argue about which of those changes have been “good” for Leith until all the boats come home and the whisky bottle is empty. What everyone can most probably agree on is that the saving of the Custom House from dilapidation and crass development is a marvellous thing.
The Scottish Historic Buildings Trust have been working on plans to repurpose and refurbish the building to make the best use of its spaces and unique location and now have some exciting plans to share.
SHBT Director Sam Gallacher and architect Richard Murphy have unveiled the exciting proposals for this historic building, “a town square for the 21st century”, which will include a unique digital museum, artist studios and event spaces for the local community. You can see (and comment on) the plans at this link but importantly, until 6th September, you can also drop in to the building itself to see detailed plans and let your voice be heard.
Tomorrow, Saturday 24th August, 11am-1pm they are hosting an informal café-style workshop for you to hear the proposals and share your thoughts.
More details and sign-up here:
While you’re there be prepared to be slapped in the face by the art of John Finlay whose Leith Observed exhibition muscles onto the walls of several rooms in the building. John is being hugely generous by donating all proceeds to the Custom House project - what a dude. You can check out and be inspired by his work on instagram.
The women’s collective Artitude artists have also been exhibiting at this month of open doors and earlier this month Citadel Arts presented their new site-specific play, Leith Customs, which drew on the experiences of former Custom Officials about working and living in Leith during the 1970s.
Seen here in the fantastic staircase which forms the heart of the Custom House, Alison Moodie has many a story (with some she can’t tell you) about day-to-day goings-on with the Customs and Excise in Leith. Frankly, I can’t believe Alison was working here in the 70’s as she doesn’t look a day over 40 - she may be making the whole thing up!
Later this month you can take part in free family-friendly art workshops, but tickets must be booked through Eventbrite as spaces are limited.
Marvelous Sea Birds: Saturday 31st August, 10-2pm and 1-3pm
Ship Ahoy: Saturday 7th September, 10-2pm and 1-3pm
Apologies if this reads a bit like a plug for Scottish Historic Buildings Trust but, jeepers, I suppose it is. I love the work they do and their care for our heritage and the needs of the local community, so they deserve a wee big round of applause.
(They are also really fun to work with)
So there you go, an episode from Leith. Thanks for being here, and I hope you like a wee insight into the photography work I do with a whole range of clients. The variety is something I really enjoy and find creatively stimulating. If you are interested in throwing me a challenging brief please don’t hesitate.
Maybe see you out there.
TD