poetry – Picturing Paisley

Did you know that?

Is Paisley Photographic Society the oldest photographic society in Scotland? It was founded in 1857 and continues to operate today.

The town also established the Paisley Government School of Art and Design in 1846, and enthusiasm for the arts was so prevalent that it led to the establishment of the Paisley Art Institute in 1876.

At the University of the West of Scotland, you can also study photography at the HND level at various campuses, including our very own Paisley Campus. Students always host their end-of-year exhibitions at a local venue.

One famous photographer from the town is Alexander Gardner, and you will have seen at least one of his photographs, his portrait of Abraham Lincoln. Taken in February 1865, it was an album in silver print made by contact printing a glass negative on light-sensitive paper. The large glass negative broke after it was developed, and only one print was made before the negative was discarded. Gardiner was famous for taking many pictures of the American Civil War.

Abraham Lincoln by Gardiner.

Today, in Paisley, we are lucky to have many great photographers and artists who use the medium as a reference for creating their work.

The Art Department at Paisley, a large art space on Causeyside Street, encourages artists to explore their creativity and exhibit there.

Carole Gledhill from the Picturing Paisley group and her cyanotypes.

Picturing Paisley exhibition on hoardings outside the museum on Paisley High Street on September 26

Picturing Paisley exhibition on hoardings outside the museum on the Paisley High Street on September 26.

The Art Department at Paisley

Spring, at last…

Spring has indeed arrived in Paisley, bringing a delightful renewal and warmth. The air is no longer frigid, and the last remnants of snow in the mountains have melted away. The birds have returned, serenading us with their morning chorus. I even had the pleasure of spotting a shy jay up close as it hopped onto the bird feeder—a rare sight! 🌸🐦

There’s even more to celebrate in the heart of Paisley town centre this season. The Spring Farmyard Trail is underway, featuring ten animals that have left their farmyards to graze in town. The farmer needs our help to find them all! 🐄🐑🐖

To participate, pick up a trail leaflet from the Piazza Shopping Centre or the Paisley Shopping Centre, or download your copy from the Paisley First website. As you explore, keep an eye out for these friendly farmyard creatures. When you reach the last participating business, Kettle Black, beside County Square, you’ll receive a free crème egg as a sweet reward. Don’t forget to drop your completed entry form into one of the special Farmyard post boxes in the shopping centres to win one of two bumper Spring Hampers! 🥚🌼

So let’s embrace the season, enjoy the fresh air, and make the most of this delightful Spring in Paisley! 🌱🌞

Happy Birthday, Picturing Paisley!

Today, we gather to celebrate a remarkable milestone—the 4th anniversary of ‘Picturing Paisley’. It’s hard to believe that four years have passed since our humble beginnings. What started as a small online community has blossomed into a vibrant hub, uniting paisley lovers from across the globe. In these four years, we’ve seen extraordinary talent and passion. Our site has become a canvas for artists, designers, and enthusiasts, each bringing their unique perspective to this timeless pattern.

From intricate digital designs to hand-drawn masterpieces, the diversity and creativity of our community have been nothing short of inspiring.’Picturing Paisley’ has not just been about sharing art; it’s been about sharing stories. Each paisley swirl carries a tale, a personal connection to history, culture, and art. We’ve seen Paisley’s journey from ancient Persia to the Scottish town of Paisley, which became a symbol of rebellion in the 60s, to its resurgence in modern fashion. Our community has kept this rich history alive and thriving.

As we look to the future, let’s continue to nurture this platform as a space for learning, sharing, and celebrating the beauty of paisley. Let’s keep the threads of tradition and innovation intertwined, just like the teardrop-shaped motif we all adore. To all who have contributed, from our dedicated team to every member who has shared a post, a comment, or a like: thank you. Your enthusiasm and support have shaped ‘Picturing Paisley’ into what it is today. So, here’s to ‘Picturing Paisley’, to the beauty of the paisley pattern, and to many more years of inspiration and community. Happy 4th Birthday!”