An eventful two weeks in Edinburgh. It’s been a busy time celebrating, spending time with friends and family, visiting galleries and making the most of city life.
I feel refreshed but also looking forward to some normal: a walk along a windy coast, time in the studio and to see the bairns, my own space. Although a break from painting has been constructive, it’s been missed. The last few years have required concentration, focus and lots of hours in the studio so not painting has been kinda strange!
Now that I am home it feels good to be back to the wind and fresh air. Yesterday was mostly spent tidying the studio and getting it ready to be worked in again. Today it seemed a good idea to go for a windy walk. Time to reflect on people met, discussions had and the experience of exhibiting in Edinburgh. Roseness loop was the chosen walk. The sea was wild, grass was bleached and blowing and nobody was about. At the end of the walk I spotted a peedie Otter, before it spotted me. It didn’t stick around, although I did my best to stay very still and quiet.
Otters are such secretive mammals. It’s always lovely to see them but always feel a bit bad when out walking and spot one, wouldn’t want to cause fright or ruin their peaceful swim. Today I was behind a fence when it was in the water, so slowly lowered myself down onto the grass and just watched for a bit. It didn’t stay around for long as suspect it sensed me. It was still a cool encounter.
These kind of sightings often make me wonder about the symbolism attached so Googled when home – “what does seeing an otter mean?”
Their playful nature is linked to a curious mind and creative energy
The otter is social and mischievous and a symbol of grace, empathy, happiness and never-ending curiosity
It encourages adaptability, sociability, and finding happiness in simple pleasures
Who knows if these kind of interpretations mean anything? I’m gonna take this one though and remember the peedie Otter that said hello at Roseness when I came home from Glimro.
Glimro is on until the 28th March 2026 so plenty of time to visit. An online event Meet Laura Drever on the 18th March, 6pm-6.30pm, will mark the last of the events attached to the Exhibition. It would be lovely to welcome you.
I will be ‘riding the crest of wave’ from home (a good wish sent from Anne Bevan, artist friend) for the remainder of the exhibition. Hopefully those that haven’t been able to make it along so far, can head along to the gallery and spend time with the collection before individual artworks head to their new homes. Otherwise, a feel of the exhibition can be viewed online.
Oh and finally for today, if you read the Scotsman there is a review by Susan Mansfield ****
Laura Drever 