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PICTURES: What does it mean to be an incomer in the Highlands?





Clare-Louise Battersby's latest exhibition is now open to the public in Grantown.
Clare-Louise Battersby's latest exhibition is now open to the public in Grantown.

Incomers - now that can be a provocative word but not to artist Clare-Louise Battersby.

The subject and its meaning is at the heart of her brand new art exhibition being staged in Grantown.

Battersby is unveiling her solo exhibition ‘Observations of an Incomer’ today which explores themes of identity, belonging and the cultural richness of the North East Scotland.

Her show her is running until the end of February at the town’s OPENSPACE Contemporary Art Gallery and features mixed media and encaustic wax works.

Battersby said her artworks have been inspired by the Doric language, Scottish folklore and wild landscapes.

It is a celebration of Scotland’s oral storytelling traditions and the unique quirks of Doric expressions and narratives.

The Cailleach and the Well (oils on mixed media).
The Cailleach and the Well (oils on mixed media).

The artist, who lives in Edinvillie said her pieces capture the essence of local pride, the beauty of untamed landscapes and the vibrant tapestry of life in the North East.

It is a compelling body of work exploring her personal journey as an ‘incomer’ settling into the rugged and culturally rich landscapes of Scotland.

But she takes no offence with being described as ‘incomer’ - far from it in fact.

She explains: ““Some people find offence in the word ‘incomer’. I do not.

“It is a harmless and accurate descriptive word.

“Offence is taken not given. Words and symbols only have the power we give them.”

Grey Man of Ben Macdui (oils on wooden panel).
Grey Man of Ben Macdui (oils on wooden panel).

Battersby continues: “I wanted to delve into how it feels to be an ‘incomer’ - someone learning to understand and embrace a new cultural identity while navigating the dynamics of belonging and difference.

“The Doric language and Scottish folklore have been a gift to learn, in stories of people and place.

“My fascination with dialect and expressions - where it comes from - and a deep respect for Scotland’s oral storytelling traditions have inspired me to explore the rich history, magick and often little-known quirks of Doric and the stories they carry.”

The exhibition showcases Battersby’s distinctive approach to storytelling through her art.

Doric Nine Panel (encaustic medium).
Doric Nine Panel (encaustic medium).

Each piece weaves layers of wax, pigment, and found materials, creating pieces that are both contemporary and deeply rooted in tradition.

‘Observations of an Incomer’ opens today and runs until February 28.

The exhibition at OPENSPACE - accessed via Highland Artisans - is free to attend.

Opening hours are Saturday 9am to 5pm; Sunday (closed); Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9 to 5pm.

About the artist:

Clare-Louise Battersby is an artist, designer, and Vice Chair of North East Open Studios (NEOS).

Her work is influenced by landscapes, wildlife, folklore, and the intersections of identity and culture.

A mentor and advocate for the arts, Clare-Louise promotes creativity as a means of fostering mental wealth and community connection.


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