Four former Forth Valley College students have clicked into place as members of the 2024 Stirling Photography Festival’s organising committee.
David Chapman (42) from Alloa, Gregor Boyd (33) from Tullibody, Jade Scott (31) from Alva and Charles McGuigan (56) from Stirling, have been putting their considerable creative talents to good use organising a total of 20 photography linked events and exhibitions, in 10 venues from late August till the end of September, and helping the seventh annual festival to celebrate Stirling’s rich heritage, culture and achievements.
Themed as ‘Roots & Rituals’ for 2024 (Stirling Photography Festival), the events are being held all across Stirlingshire, involving photographers, writers, musicians, story tellers and artisans. And as this year is Stirling's 900th year as a Royal Burgh, the organising committee have come up with an exciting programme of exhibitions, workshops, talks and photo walks, crafted to celebrate the people and the place.
All the students have completed their studies at Forth Valley College and completed or are completed either a BA Art and Design or BA Digital Media degree at the University of Stirling.
David, said: “On our very first week at College our lecturers, Brian and Michelle, took us along to a couple of events at an earlier Stirling Photography Festival. It is nice that now, after completing my HND, I am able to contribute in some small way to this great series of events. The festival for me has been a great bridge between college life and the professional-world, and has allowed me the opportunity to boost my skills and knowledge further, whilst working alongside some very talented and creative people.”
Gregor, who did the BA Digital Media Degree, said: “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunities given to me by the lecturers and the college. I’ve loved working with the Photography Festival this year, going from a contributor and attendee, to actually helping plan and conceptualise the 2024 Roots & Rituals schedule was fascinating. I’m already thinking towards next year!”
Charles, said: “Forth Valley College was instrumental in shaping my creative journey, providing me with the skills and confidence to pursue my passion for photography. The supportive environment and hands-on experience laid the foundation for my current studies at the University of Stirling. Being part of the Stirling Photography Festival's organising committee has been a rewarding experience, allowing me to apply what I've learned while celebrating the rich heritage of our community. I highly recommend FVC to anyone looking to unlock their creative potential.”
Jade, who graduated with her BA Art and Design in 2019, said: “Forth Valley College has helped me through my journey with the diverseness of the creative industries, and the diverse range of lecturers and their visible enthusiasm for what they teach.
“The range of knowledge throughout the creative department is exceptional. I found photography through attending art courses and going through NC Art and Design, Portfolio Preparation, HNC & HND Photography then finishing my Bachelors degree in 2019 in the Arts, using photography in a creative way. The camera is always with me. The arts are important to me and play a big role in my daily life.
“Now volunteering with the Stirling Photography Festival has been brilliant. The first event this year started off with Laura Stevenson - another SPF volunteer – and myself opening our own exhibition around ‘New Scots’ and how they connect with ‘Home’ as part of the routes and rituals festival this year.”
Locations include the Old Mill at Killin, West Moss-Side Farm in Thornhill and also venues in Stirling itself, such as The Barracks Conference Centre, Stirling County Rugby Club, Smith Art Gallery and Museum, Macrobert Arts Centre and The Art Collection at the University of Stirling, The Engine Shed, The Tolbooth and the Meadowpark, Bridge of Allan.
The festival has once again been supported by long-term partners, including The Barracks Conference Centre, the Tolbooth, Street Level Photoworks, The Smith Art Gallery and Museum, Made in Stirling, the Macrobert Arts Centre and the Art Collection at the University of Stirling.
Sponsorship from local businesses has also ensured the festival delivers an exceptional programme of free to attend events, workshops and exhibitions led by some of Scotland’s best emerging and established artists. Amongst their sponsors this year are STEP, Untitled Barber Club, Vialli Gardens, Doune Woodyard, the Meadowpark, The Robertson Trust and industry sponsor, Gulabi of Glasgow.
Janie Meikle Bland, Creative Director, said: “Our volunteer creative team are the beating heart of our festival - a group equally passionate about photography and their community.
“Since our first festival in 2018 we’ve had student volunteers on the team, curating the programme, leading on communications, documenting events and even delivering workshops and exhibiting.
Having Charles, David, Gregor and Jade on the team this year has brought fresh ideas and a passion to engage with the student community. Charles and David have lead the Exhibition Trail initiative showcasing eleven photographers; Jade has delivered a workshop, talk and exhibition celebrating New Scots and Gregor will lead a Street Photography event as part of the University of Stirling Student Welcome programme - novel elements in the festival and all rooted in strengthening our community.
“Together with our network of enthusiastic and supportive partners, our shared passion and enthusiasm has helped the festival flourish. The impact we have delivered has seen us nominated twice for our ‘Outstanding Contribution to the City of Stirling’.”
For more information on the Stirling Photography Festival and the schedule of events that are taking place throughout September, visit Stirling Photography Festival