What’s On In Edinburgh this week

Plenty happening again this week – from fundraisers for Palestine, Water for Life and the Scouts, to films from Poland, Africa and Italy. Books will be launched, exhibitions will be opened, French and Russian will be spoken and, as Remembrance Day approaches, many events will consider war and the price paid for freedom.  Meanwhile, down in Leith, you might encounter some rather unusual penguins….

MONDAY 3RD NOVEMBER 2014

Before The Diving: little is known about ancient Penguin civilisation, but the recent discovery of early Penguin eggshell drawings provides a fascinating though slightly disconcerting insight into their previously unknown empire. Haika Maeda, a Chinese/Japanese artist living in Scotland for the past six years, re-imagines the fragmented drawings found so far, bringing this untold story to life. 10am-5pm, today until 11th November 2014 (closed Sunday), Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street.

Tricolour: monthly night showcasing three different poetry and spoken word talents. Three different voices, three different styles, three different takes on life. This month Philip Hutton, Freddie Alexander and Steve Harvey. 6.30pm, National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge. Book online or call 0131 623 3734.

Envie d’ecouter et parler Francais? Come along to this new French conversation group, led by native French speaker Laetitia. French cheeses and refreshments to keep the discussion going! 6.30pm, Corstorphine Library, 12 Kirk Loan.

Fitness for Women: new term, new tutor (Nicole), new you! Free classes start today, 10am-11am then same time each week, St David’s Broomhouse Church, Broomhouse Cresent. For more information and to book your place call 0131 467 7678 or email kirsty@healthstrategygroup.org.uk.

Janice Cairns: Forgiving Nancy. Debut novelist Janice Cairns talks about her novel, a dramatic and moving love story set in Edinburgh in the 1980s. 6.30-7.30pm, Portobello Library, 14 Rosefield Avenue. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite.

Reedeeng! With Sam Barclay: Hear Sam’s own story of his experience of living with dyslexia and the creation of his award-winning book  I wonder what it’s like to be dyslexic? A Dyslexia Awareness Week event, especially suitable for anyone studying art and design at secondary school level or above and those with a personal interest in or connection with dyslexia. 2-4pm Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite.

Fountainbridge Craft and Chat: a new group starting this week. If you enjoy knitting, sewing, crochet, quilting, embroidery, papercraft or any other crafting and fancy some company while you work, come along to the library; bring your own project, get tips and hints from the group – tea and cake provided! 6-7.30pm, Fountainbridge Library, 137 Dundee Street.

Phil Taylor: Staying Power: A Year in My Life. Meet professional darts superstar Phil ‘the Power’ Taylor, who will sign copies of his new book. 12.30pm, Waterstones West End, Princes Street. For more information call 0131 226 2666.

Jogo de Corpo: Body Games. ‘A sensual tapestry of combat games from both sides of the Atlantic.’ Former street child Mestre Cobra Mansas tells how through capoeira he grew into Brazil’s black movement and discovered his identity as an Afro-Brazilian; a true story of combat games, dance and music that connect Brazil and Africa from the time of slavery to today. For ages 16+. 6-7.30pm, Red Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £5: book online or call Summerhall on 0131 560 1581. Part of Africa in Motion: Scotland African Film Festival 2014. See The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about the Film Festival here.

Coffee Morning for Kinship Carers: come along to this free coffee morning and meet other kinship carers. Playroom available to keep little ones occupied; all kinship carers welcome! 10am-12 noon today and every first Monday of the month, The Haven Project, Craigroyston Primary School, Muirhouse Place West.

LGBT Police Surgery: seek advice, raise concerns about safety issues, report incidents or discuss policing in your area with an officer from Police Scotland. Within weekly drop-in session (for ages 16+); no appointment necessary. 6.30-7.30pm (drop-in 5.30-8pm ) LGBT Health & Wellbeing Centre, 9 Howe Street.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents The Monthly Book Quiz: teams of up to five can take part, but arrive early as space is limited. 6-7.15pm, Caffe Nero, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free: no tickets required. For more information contact Ann Landmann on 0131 622 8216 or email events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk.

Engage: the military and young people: screening of this new short film (made by teenagers with the youth journalists’ charity Headliners) and the launch of a new report on the controversy surrounding the Armed Forces’ visits to schools in Scotland. With representatives from Forces Watch, EIS and Scottish Youth Parliament. More information about the film can be found here. 7.30-9pm, Forest Cafe, Lauriston Place. Free, but please book a place.

The Scottish Gallery: new exhibitions. McCrory Family (silversmiths), Tania Clarke Hall (jewellery), Archie Forest Ensemble (paintings inspired by travels in France, Portugal and Italy), Robert Colquhoun and Robert MacBryde Golden Years. 10am-6pm Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm Saturdays, The Scottish Gallery, 16 Dundas Street. Exhibitions close 26th November 2014.

World War One Cinema: Private Peaceful (2012). A film of the horrors of war and the injustice surrounding the execution of soldiers by firing squad on the often false grounds of desertion or cowardice. Cert: 12. 6.30-8.45pm, St Bride’s Centre, 10 Orwell Terrace, Dalry. Free – part of Gorgie War Memorial Hall’s World War One Commemoration.

Charity Coffee Morning: in aid of SCIAF Water for Life Project. Begins after 10am Mass, St John the Evangelist, 35 Brighton Place, Portobello.

 

TUESDAY 4TH NOVEMBER 2014

Are You Going Up The Road? A new exhibition by Carolann Alexander, and Land Sea and Sky, new works by Newton Ross. Preview 6-8pm today, then 11am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday, The Gallery on the Corner, Northumberland Street. Exhibitions close 29th November 2014. The Gallery on the Corner is a commercial art gallery and studio providing a platform to exhibit and sell artwork produced by artists who have a physical or mental health condition, and was the first social firm developed by Autism Ventures Scotland.

The Banana Club: cooking, arts, crafts and games for 5-8 year olds – the place to come to have fun and make new friends! 4-5.30pm, Canongate Youth, South Bridge Resource Centre, Infirmary Street. 50p per session. For more information call Canongate Youth on 0131 556 9389 or see Facebook page.

Miners Shot Down: the story of the 2012 strike by a group of mineworkers at one of South Africa’s largest platinum mines and the fatal shooting by police of 34 workers. ‘A courageous but isolated fight.’ For ages 16+. 5.30-7.05pm, Red Lecture Theatre, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £5: book online or call Summerhall on 0131 560 1581. Part of Africa in Motion: Scotland African Film Festival 2014. See The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about the Film Festival here.

Future Sound of Mzansi: a documentary aiming to explore, express and interrogate South Africa’s cultural landscape through the vehicle of electronic music. Deep house, glitch, hop, sghubu sapitori, durban qhum, dubstep and shangaan electro.  ‘In a country still steeped in poverty, crime and injustice, young South Africans party like their lives depended on it.’ For ages 16+. 9-10.40pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £5: book online or call Summerhall on 0131 560 1581. Part of Africa in Motion: Scotland African Film Festival 2014.

To Absent Friends: Scrapbooking Workshop.  To Absent Friends is a festival of storytelling and remembrance, being held for the first time 1-7 November 2014. This event is a creative opportunity to remember, to tell stories, to celebrate and to reminisce about people we love who have died. Please bring a photo no larger than 6″ x 4″, all other materials will be supplied, but if you have any small pieces of memorabilia or something special you’d like to include, please feel free to bring these along. 2-4pm George Washington Browne Room, Central Library, George IV Bridge. Free, please book via eventbrite.

The Sonics: LGBT Basketball Group. A friendly and informal group for beginners and regular players alike. 7-8pm every Tuesday, Leith Community Education Centre, 12a New Kirkgate. Contact Jules via jules@lgbthealth.org.uk or on 0131 523 1104 for more information. Group contact: thesonics@hotmail.co.uk.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Next Generation Poets 2014: this celebratory evening will feature performances from Alan Gillis and Helen Mort, who will be joined by special guests Jacob Polley from Next Generation Poets 2004 and Scottish performance poet Harry Giles. The Poetry Society’s previous Next Generation Poets promotions have helped to launch the careers of some of today’s leading British and Irish poets, including Simon Armitage and Carol Ann Duffy. 6-7.45pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets are available from Blackwell’s front desk or by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk. More information about Next Generation Poets can be found here.

Bookbug: stories, rhymes and songs for babies, toddlers, pre-school children and their families. 10.30-11.15am, Leith Library, 28-30 Ferry Road. Free.

 

WEDNESDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2014

Boney Night wi’ Firewurks! Fireworks, dookin’, fancy dress competition, turnip lantern competition, snack refreshments – and fireworks!  Free and open to all, children must be accompanied by an adult. 6.30-8.30pm, Craigmillar Community Arts Centre, Newcraighall Road. For more information – or if you are able to help – call 0131 669 8432 or email craigmillarcommunityarts@gmail.com.

Queen Charlotte in Coronation Robes: Susan Kerr, former Curator at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, will examine the background to this sumptuous portrait by Allan Ramsay and studio. Married and crowned within a fortnight, 17 year old Princess Charlotte of Mecklenberg-Strelitz and her consort George III had a happy and companionable marriage. Susan Kerr will also consider the couple’s special relationship with the artist. 12.45-1.15pm, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Presents Peter Irvine: Scotland The Best 100 Places. Peter Irvine, he of Unique Events which organises most things that happen in Edinburgh,  has drawn on a lifetime of experiences to create this list of the 100 best places in Scotland – ‘reflective, magnificent and human places.’ This personal and diverse compendium is illustrated with beautiful and evocative images from some of Scotland’s best photographers. 6.30-7.30pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free tickets are available from Blackwell’s  front desk or by calling 0131 622 8218 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk.

The Summerhall Singers: this community choir meets weekly and for occasional performances. No auditions, all welcome. 7-9.15pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. For more information email summerhallsingers@gmail.com

The Wednesday Club: activity and social hub for local teenagers aged 12-17. 6-7.30pm, Canongate Youth, South Bridge Resource Centre, Infirmary Street. 50p per session. For more information call Canongate Youth on 0131 556 9389 or see Facebook page.

The Wood Within: a selling exhibition of fine sculptural furniture by The Wood Neuk. Discover the beautiful wood hidden within two of Scotland’s most famous trees, the elm and the oak, as contemporary styles meet nature. The Wood Neuk is run by David Lightly and Ross Purves, and grew out of The Workshop of Tim Stead, the renowned late sculptor and artist. 10am-6pm, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Free. Exhibition closes 22nd November 2014.

LGBT: Bi and Beyond. A fortnightly social gathering for people (aged 16+) who identify as bisexual or non-monosexual. With organised social activities and refreshments provided, you will be welcomed whatever your label or lack of label. 7-9pm, LGBT Health & Wellbeing Centre, 9 Howe Street. For more information contact biandbeyondedinburgh@gmail.com.

1994: The Bloody Miracle. As South Africa celebrates its 20th anniversary of the advent of democracy in 1994, it is difficult to believe that the ‘Mandela miracle’ nearly didn’t happen. In an orgy of countrywide violence, some were determined to derail the first free elections. Now those responsible for countless deaths and widespread mayhem explain how they nearly brought South Africa to its knees. A chilling look at what these hard men did to thwart democracy and how they have now made an uneasy peace with the ‘Rainbow Nation.’ Director Meg Rickards will attend and take part in a discussion after the screening. For ages 16+. 6-7.40pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £5: book online or call Summerhall on 0131 560 1581. Part of Africa in Motion: Scotland African Film Festival 2014.

Come Back Africa: after witnessing first-hand the terrors of fascism in World War II, director Lionel Rogosin vowed to fight against it whenever and wherever he saw its threats re-emerging. For ages 16+. 8.30-10pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £5: book online or call Summerhall on 0131 560 1581. Part of Africa in Motion: Scotland African Film Festival 2014. See The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about the Film Festival here.

Dyslexia Awareness Week: apps to help your dyslexic primary age child. There are so many apps out there – how do you choose? Come along to this informal session, meet other parents, and get some hints and tips on free educational apps for your children. 10-11am, Granton Library, Wardieburn Terrace. Just drop in, no booking required.

What’s Happening To Our Weather? Members of Morningside Justice and Peace Group will speak on this always topical subject. 10.30-11.30am, The Open Door, 420 Morningside Road. All welcome: £1 contribution to costs is requested.

Poet to Poet: new poet-in-residence Maciej Wozniak talks to Scottish poet Peter Mackay about the culture of poetry in Poland and how being a Polish poet compares to being a Scottish one. 6.30pm, Scottish Poetry Library, 5 Crichton’s Close, Canongate. £5/£4; tickets should be booked via eventbrite.

Zoo Arts Extra: visual arts sessions for ages 9-14 – improve your skills, be inspired and get involved with exciting projects. 4-5.30pm today and every Wednesday, North Edinburgh Arts, 15a Pennywell Road. 50p per session (includes healthy snack). See Zoo Arts’ Facebook page here.

Aid to the Church in Need: Religious Freedom Project. An event to learn about people throughout the world who suffer persecution because of their faith, and ways in which you can stand up and make a difference. Speakers: John Pontifex, Editor in Chief, Religious Freedom in the World 2014 Report, and Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, President of the Nigerian Bishops’ Conference. 6.30pm. Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road. Free, but tickets must be booked by calling 01698 337472 or emailing michael.robinson@acnuk.org. ‘This event has something to say to everyone who cherishes freedom.’ Aid to the Church in Need is a Pontifical Foundation of the Catholic Church and a registered charity.

Play Poland 2014 Film Festival Special Screening: Oh PLA Across the Borders (animations) and Munk Studio: First Documentary. 6.30pm, Meow Photography Studios, 86-92 Causewayside. Free.

 

THURSDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 2014

Dolina: An Island Girl’s Journey.Well-known singer, actress and storyteller Dolina Maclennan launches her autobiography, written in conversation with Jim Gilchrist and Stuart Edymann. Dolina looks back at her childhood on Lewis and to her friendships with many of the great figures of the Scottish artistic and literary scene over the past half century. 6-8pm, Storytelling Court, Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Free. Part of the Carrying Stream Festival 2014.

Flash Comedy Night: some of the finest acts who performed at Boda during the Festival have been invited back for ‘a hilarious evening not to be missed!’ 7.30-9pm, Boda Bar, 229 Leith Walk. Free; arrive early to get good seats.

Watson Gordon Lecture: Unfinished Paintings: Narratives of the Non-Finito. David Bomford, Director of Conservation, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston explores the non-finito from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Unfinished paintings (examples of which can be seen in the National Gallery) fascinate the viewer and raise intriguing questions. What circumstances left them incomplete? What do they tell us about the way that painters worked? How do we define ‘finish’ and when did an artist consider a work to be finished? 6-7.30pm, Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed.

International Citizens Group: a group for people from different countries and cultures to share their knowledge and concerns about life in South Edinburgh.  Explore the services in your community, meet new people and have some fun over tea and biscuits, share ideas about what needs to change and how to go about changing it, work together on issues that matter to you and to others in the group, and practice your spoken English. 1-3pm today and every Thursday, Tolcross Community Centre, Tolcross Primary School, 117 Fountainbridge. To get involved, or for more information, please email mcaree.orlaith@gmail.com, phone the Adult Learning Project on 0131 221 5800 or call in to Tollcross Community Centre.

D is for Dragons: Anita Govan, performance poet. To celebrate Dyslexia Awareness Week,  join Anita as she shares her own story and some fantastic performance poetry. Anita has been deeply involved with poetry slams in Scotland, including the annual inter-city schools slam for 12-14 year olds. 6.30-7.30pm, Portobello Library, 14 Rosefield Avenue. Free tickets can be booked via eventbrite.

Books In Focus: World War One Artists. The ‘Books In Focus’ sessions look at artists’ books held in the Special Collections of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. This meeting will consider a cross-section of original publications of both Scottish and international artists working during the First World War, including Wyndham Lewis, Fernand Leger, Philippo Tommaso Marinetti and Scottish Colourist FCB Cadell. 11.30am-12.30pm, Reading Room, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art TWO, Belford Road. Limited places available: to book please call 0131 624 6268 or email gmainfo@nationalgalleries.org. Free.

The Thursday Club: an opportunity for local 8-11 year olds to be active, meet friends, try new activities and have fun! 5.30-7pm, Canongate Youth, South Bridge Resource Centre, Infirmary Street. 50p per session. For more information call Canongate Youth on 0131 556 9389 or see Facebook page.

Val McDermid and Sue Black – Forensics: The Anatomy of Crime. Val McDermid’s new book uncovers the secrets of forensic medicine, from the crime scene to the courtroom. Drawing on interviews with top-level professionals, ground-breaking research and her own experience, she lays bare the secrets of this fascinating science. Val will be in conversation with Professor Sue Black, one of the UK’s leading forensic anthropologists and the Director of the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification at Dundee University. 7-8pm, King Khalid Building, The Royal College of Surgeons, off Hill Square. Free tickets are available from Blackwell’s South Bridge (in person, by calling 0131 622 8222 or emailing events.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk,) or via eventbrite.

The Scotland-Russia Forum: sparkling Russian/English conversation over tea and cakes. Everyone is warmly welcome to come along to the group, no booking required. 11am, Summerhall Cafe, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. No charge apart from any drinks or food you may wish to purchase.

Medical Detectives Lecture: Professor Peter Sandercock, academic clinical neurologist, will speak on Unravelling the Mysteries of Stroke Disease – The Clue’s in the Numbers.  6-7pm, (doors open 5.40pm) Anatomy Lecture Theatre, Medical School (Doorway 3), University of Edinburgh, Teviot Square. Places should be booked via eventbrite.

Lunchtime Concert: KDKDK: piano duo Katharine Durran and Kirsteen Davidson Kelly perform Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring. 1.10pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free and unticketed.

Bookbug: rhymes, songs and stories for babies and pre-school children. 10.30-11am, Fountainbridge Library, 137 Dundee Street. Free: no booking necessary.

La voce del corpo: The Voice of the Body. ‘A joyful, instructive perspective on that peculiar, non-verbal code of communication that makes Sicilians (and Italians) famous throughout the world.’ A film made exclusively in Sicily, in Italian and Sicilian with English subtitles. Director Luca Vullo will introduce the film and take part in a Q & A session after the screening. 6pm, Italian Cultural Institute, 82 Nicolson Street. Booking may be made here.

Thursday Club: Professor Alan Murray speaks on Why Should An Old Professor Care About A Chap Called Rupert Bear? 2pm, Upper Hall, Mayfield Salisbury Church Hall, 18 West Mayfield.  All welcome, contact Florence Smith on 0131 663 1234 for more information.

Metamorphoses: Grey Area and Martin Parker. A concert which will include ‘Vertebrae’ for live electronics (2014), New work for cardboard boxand live electronics (2014), Armin Sturm’s ‘Insects‘ for ensemble (2010) and Stockhausen’sKontakte for 4-channel tape(1960). Sound projection by Sean Williams. 7.30pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free and unticketed.

Nelson Mandela: the Myth and Me. When Nelson Mandela was released from prison, filmmaker Khalo Matabane was an idealistic teenager with fantastical ideas about a post-apartheid era of freedom and justice. In a personal odyssey involving an imaginary letter to Mandela and conversations with politicians, world leaders, intellectuals and artists – from Henry Kissinger to the Dalai Lama – Matabane interrogates the meaning of freedom, reconciliation and forgiveness in a world of conflict and inequality, alternating his discussions between erudite scholars and survivors of apartheid. Khalo Matabane will be in attendance and will take part in a Q & A session after the screening. For ages 16+. 6-7.25pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Tickets £5: book online or call Summerhall on 0131 560 1581. Part of Africa in Motion: Scotland African Film Festival 2014.

Peter F Hamilton: The Abyss Beyond Dreams. Peter will discuss his new book, the first part in the Chronicle of Fallers series. 6pm, Waterstones West End, Princes Street. Tickets available from store, £3 or £2 with Waterstones’ loyalty card. For more information call 0131 226 2666.

Ecumenical Friends of St Cuthbert’s. Sarah Kilbey: You Shall Not Curse the Deaf – a ministry with deafened and hard of hearing people. All welcome: bring your own packed lunch, tea and coffee provided. 12.30pm, St Cuthbert’s Church, Lothian Road. £1.50 per person. Organised by Edinburgh City Centre Churches TOGETHER.

Literary Edinburgh: Works On Paper by Lucy Jones. Edinburgh artist Lucy Jones has drawn on the city’s rich literary heritage, seeking out buildings with a literary connection, both historical and contemporary, from national landmarks such as libraries, museums and monuments to writers’ houses and haunts. An avid collector of old maps and books, she constructs her collages with relevant texts and images, creating unique ‘building portraits’ which have a literary as well as a visual story. 10am-6pm,  Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street. Free.  Exhibition ends 6th December 2014.

Andrew Williams: The Suicide Club. Andrew will read from his new book, a First World War thriller set in 1917 Occupied Belgium telling the dark, disturbing and untold story of  the shadow espionage battle fought behind the lines. 6.30-8pm, Waterstones, George Street. Free tickets are available from the shop. For more information call 0131 225 3436.

 

 

FRIDAY 7TH NOVEMBER 2014

Paint Like Degas: Demonstration and Book Launch. Artist Damian Callan will talk about and demonstrate some of Degas’s techniques that feature in his new book Paint Like Degas. These will include the use of chalk pastels on tracing paper and the ‘scraping down’ of oil paint layers on canvas. 12.45-1.30pm, Clore Education Centre, Scottish National Gallery, The Mound. Free and unticketed, but please note places are limited.

All The Leaves Are Brown And The Sky Is Grey: a new exhibition of photography by Barbara Anderson, a graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design. This collection is an impression of the vibrant and intoxicating atmosphere of California in line, colour and detail;’ an attempt to document the reality of one of America’s most iconic states in fleeting moments of detail.’ Bubbles and nibbles supplied! 7pm, Sofi’s Bar, 65 Henderson Street.

Storytelling: for ages 4+. 2pm, Blackhall Library, 56 Hillhouse Road. Free, no booking required.

Reducing Inequality: has the University eradicated sexism? This Ethics Forum lunchtime session will examine gender inequality and explore the ways in which universities are working to reduce this in academia, and in their institutions more broadly. There will be short talks by Dr Elinor Mason and Professor Jane Norman, followed by a Q & A session and discussion. All welcome: personal experiences will not be solicited as all sessions are filmed and made available in the public domain. 1-2.30pm, Chrystal Macmillan Building (seminar rooms 1 and 2), University of Edinburgh, George Square. Places should be booked via eventbrite.

City Music Cafe: for ages 12-17. 1-4pm, Canongate Youth, South Bridge Resource Centre, Infirmary Street. £1 per session. For more information call Canongate Youth on 0131 556 9389 or see Facebook page.

Stan Douglas: Douglas is a Canadian artist who came to prominence in the mid-90s, when his film installation Der Sandmann was one of the highlights of Documenta X in 1997. He has been at the forefront of the international art scene ever since. This exhibition will present a selection of Douglas’s films and photograps, ranging from Der Sandmann to the just-completed The Second Hotel, Vancouver. Artist’s talk (free) 5-6pm today – book here, exhibition 11am-6pm Monday to Saturday, 12 noon-5pm Sundays, Fruitmarket Gallery, 45 Market Street. Exhibition ends 15th February 2015.

Gorgie Farm Spinning and Woolcraft Group: drop in to see spinning in action and maybe have a go yourself, or join the group for longer term hints, tutoring and sharing. 10am-12 noon, Gorgie City Farm, 51 Gorgie Road. £2 per week.

Edinburgh College of Art Friday Lecture Series: Paul Seawright, Professor of Photography and Head of Belfast School of Art at the University of Ulster, introduces his new book Things Left Unsaid, which looks at the reporting of conflict in the USA.  11.30am-1pm, Main Lecture Theatre (Room E22), Edinburgh College of Art, Lauriston Place. Free and open to all.

Fort Kids Disco: a fundraiser for next Easter’s holiday activities. Tuck shop available.  P4-P6 must be signed in by a parent/guardian, P7-S2 must bring with them the contact number of a parent/guardian. P4-P6: 4-6pm, P7, S1 & S2: 7.30-9.30pm, Fort Community Centre, 25 North Fort Street. £2 per person.

Lunchtime Concert: String Quartet. Roderick Long (violin), Fiona Bryce-Murdoch (violin), Joanna Galbraith (viola), Lindsay Martindale(cello) and Rosie Townhill (cello) will perform Schubert’sString Quintet in C Major D956. 1.10pm, Reid Concert Hall, University of Edinburgh, Bristo Square. Free and unticketed.

Union Gallery: Christmas 2014. The Gallery’s annual extravaganza, showcasing a mixture of its finest artists. 10.30am-6pm Monday to Friday, 10.30am-5.30pm Saturdays, 12 noon – 6pm Sundays, Union Gallery, 45 Broughton Street. Exhibition closes 31st January 2015.

Hear Me Move: the’endearing and highly entertaining’ story of Muzi, the son of an amazing pantsula dancer, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery in order to learn the truth about his father’s death and come to terms with his own identity. For ages 16+. The screening will be followed by the closing party for the Edinburgh part of the festival; live performance from afro-percussion and dance group Ayawara followed by dancing to afro-centric beat sets from Swank ‘n’ Jams – everyone is welcome in the Township Cafe! Film: 7-8.30pm, party from 9pm, Summerhall, 1 Summerhall. Film tickets £5: book online or call Summerhall on 0131 560 1581. Party: free entry. Part of Africa in Motion: Scotland African Film Festival 2014.

Chloe Dewe Mathews: Shot At Dawn. A new body of work by British photographer Chloe Dewe Mathews, focusing on sites at which British, French and Belgian troops were executed for cowardice and desertion between 1914 and 1918. Today there seems little doubt that many of the men were suffering from psychiatric illnesses brought on by the horrors of trench warfare. ‘A  lesson in compassion.’ Artist’s talk 5pm (fully booked), preview 6-8pm, then 11am-6pm daily until 25th January 2015, Stills, 23 Cockburn Street.

Quartermile Market: street food, local designers, makers and artists. 11am-6pm, Lister Square, Quartermile.

The Astronomical Society of Edinburgh: Dr Ross Archibald – Physiology and Health in Space. 8pm, Church Centre, Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge.  All welcome: free. The Astronomical Society of Edinburgh was founded in 1924.

Some of Its Parts: a new exhibition of paintings from Edinburgh-based artist Ian Healy. Some of Its Parts is an exploration of the familial portrait, employing elements of the surreal and abstract to create a powerful interplay of the familiar and unfamiliar. ‘The everyday reworked and reimagined.’ Open preview tonight, 6.30-8.30pm, then 12 noon-5.30pm until 19th November 2014, Patriothall Gallery, 1d Patriothall, off Hamilton Row, Stockbridge.

Edinburgh Printmakers: No Fixed Abode. An exhibition in collaboration with The Big Issue, examining the significance of home as a concept, and the realities and challenges of homelessness. No Fixed Abode highlights misconceptions and attitudes towards the homeless and vulnerably housed at a time of year that is often associated with generosity and kindness. This project hopes to raise awareness and to bring tangible benefits to those affected. Preview 6-8pm today, then 10am-6pm Tuesday to Saturday until 23rd December 2014, Edinburgh Printmakers, 23 Union Street.

 

 

SATURDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 2014

Edinburgh Printmakers Open Day 2014: an opportunity to visit the oldest open access printmaking studio in the UK. Hands-on activities, with printmaking workshops for adults and children, printmaking demonstrations and studio tours. The brand new exhibition No Fixed Abode will be on display in the upstairs gallery (see Friday’s listings for more details), and there will be snacks and drinks available. For all ages. 11am-5pm, Edinburgh Printmakers, 23 Union Street.

The Story of the Woodland By Night: imagine the Lauriston Castle woodlands by night, and make a little framed picture of mysterious night-time woodland scenes, with fairy lights and secret animals. Event for families: children must be accompanied by at least one adult and tickets are needed for adults and children. Children under 3 can attend free if accompanying at least one paying sibling. 10.30am-12.30pm, Lauriston Castle, 2a Cramond Road. £5 per person: bookings must be made via the Usher Hall box office, online, by phone or in person.

Play Poland 2014 Film Festival: Polish School of Posters – Family Cinema Posters exhibition. Today until 22nd November 2014 during normal opening hours, Corridor Gallery, The Filmhouse, Lothian Road. Free.

Scout Coffee Morning: 28th Braid Scout Group warmly invites you to its annual coffee morning. Bring your friends and enjoy home-made scones and jam, shortbread, coffee, tea or juice. 10-11.30am, Mayfield Salisbury Church Hall, 18 West Mayfield.

The Torrance Gallery: Gillian Goodheir – new exhibition of landscapes and still life by the Glasgow School of Art-educated and Argyll-based artist. 11am-6pm Monday to Friday, 10.30am-4pm Saturdays, The Torrance Gallery, 36 Dundas Street.

Jodi Picoult: Leaving Time. Meet internationally bestselling author Jodi Picoult, who will be signing copies of her compulsive new novel. 12.30pm, Waterstones West End, Princes Street. For more information call 0131 226 2666.

Bookbug: rhymes, songs and stories for babies and pre-school children. 10.30-11am, Fountainbridge Library, 137 Dundee Street. Free: no booking necessary.

GENERATION Tours at Modern One: free, discussion-led tours of the exhibition, focusing on key themes and artists. 11-11.45am or 1-1.45pm, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art ONE, Belford Road. No booking required.

Family Cinema: see your favourite films for free! Choc ices and juice available at 50p each during the interval. Best for children up to 10 years: all children must be accompanied by an adult. This week: Meet The Robinsons (2007), next week: Monsters University (2013). 10.30am-12.30pm, St Bride’s Centre, 10 Orwell Terrace, Dalry. Free.

LGBT Rainbow Families: National Museum of Scotland. All LGBT parents are welcome, along with their families, to meet other families and socialise in a friendly setting. Come along for an adventure-filled time at the museum, with a fact-finding treasure hunt, group picnic and craft session. 11am-2pm, National Museum of Scotland (meet at main entrance), Chambers Street. Free entry  (bring your own picnic lunch) but booking is essential: contact Jules via jules@lgbthealth.org.uk or on 0131 523 1104.

Life Through A Lens: using a mixture of microscopes, experiments and art, join a voyage of discovery – see what the pioneers of microscopy saw and find out how microscopes are helping scientists today. 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio, Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. Free. With The Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology. Also available at same times on Sunday 9th November.

Scottish Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP): Annual Fundraising Day. Palestinian foods and crafts, Arabic coffee, home baking, plants and books. At 12 noon Professor Graham Watt (a MAP board member) will give an update on the situation in Gaza; this will be followed by a reading by Liz Lochhead and Ablah Oudeh from  the poetry collection A Bird is Not a Stone (see The Edinburgh Reporter’s article about the launch of this book here). 10am-2pm, Christ Church Hall, Morningside Road (Holy Corner).

Picturing Conflict: Art of the First World War. The Great War was a life-changing event for millions of people, a conflict that elicited responses in literature, music and the visual arts; artists were at the forefront of this movement, both officially and unofficially. This new exhibition presents a small selection of pictures, photographs, drawings and prints, produced during the war, in its immediate aftermath and in later years, when the conflict could be seen through the lenses of hindsight and memory. Today and every day (see website for hours) until 18th January 2015, City Art Centre, 2 Market Street. Free.

Hamish Henderson Memorial Lecture: Dolina Maclennan speaks on Hamish Ma Big Pal, with musical contributions from Alison McMorland and Geordie McIntyre. 12.30pm, City Chambers, 253 High Street. Free. Part of the Carrying Stream Festival 2014.

Jack Gillon and Fraser Parkinson: Leith Through Time. Meet the authors of Leith Through Time, who will be signing copies of their fascinating history of Leith. 2pm, Waterstones Ocean Terminal, Ocean Drive. For more information call 0131 554 7732.

John Muir – Nature’s Apostle: Will Collin, of Dunbar’s John Muir’s Birthplace, will explore the development of Muir’s influence as a preservationist, from his childhood in Dunbar to his death in 1914, and his legacy as ‘Father of America’s National Parks’ and ‘patron saint’ of modern environmental consciousness. 2.30-3.30pm, Ground Floor Exhibition Space, John Hope Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. Free and unticketed.

Bruncheon aka The Sound of Muesli. Brunch and live music event at the Drill Hall Arts Cafe: local music talent and DJs create a chilled-out atmosphere. Headlined this month by Kitchen Stools, a four-piece mixing acoustic guitars, synth, vocal harmonies and storytelling lyrics, plus William Douglas and other special guest performers. The cafe kitchen will complement the music with a delicious menu: kippers, morning rolls and sweet treats a-plenty!  11.30am-3pm, Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street. Free entry.

LGBT Learning Disability Project: National Museum of Scotland.  Take time to look around the main museum; areas include natural world, science and technology, world cultures, art and design.  Bring money if you would like to buy anything in the shop or cafe. Meet at the Centre in Howe Street at 2pm to catch the bus to the museum, or arrange to meet the group later next to the Brasserie Cafe in the main entrance, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street. Free entry but booking is essential no later than Thursday 6th November: contact George via george@lgbthealth.org.uk or on 0131 652 3281. The Learning Disability Project provides a range of opportunities for building confidence and friendship among LGBT people who also identify as having a learning disability or difficulty. Please bring a carer or supporter if you need help to take part.

Dr No’s Ska Club: the best 60’s ska, rocksteady and early reggae: original vinyl only. 11pm-3am, Henry’s Bar, Morrision Street. £4 before 12, £5 after 12.

They Are We: free screening of this documentary from Sierra Leone, about an Afro-Cuban group from Perico, Cuba and how they have kept alive songs and dances that their ancestors brought aboard the slave ship from Africa. ‘A story of survival against the odds and how shared humanity can ultimately triumph over years of separation.’ Cert: 15. 7pm, St John’s Church Hall, Princes Street: free and unticketed. Part of Africa in Motion: Scotland African Film Festival 2014. For more information contact Justine@africa-in-motion.org.uk.

 

 

SUNDAY 9TH NOVEMBER 2014

Tony Conrad: Opening Reception for Invented Acoustical Tools 1969-2014. The legendary artist, composer, performer and filmmaker will play a selection of his invented acoustical tools and present a number of additional works in film and video. This is Tony’s first solo exhibition in the UK. 12 noon- 3pm: (drinks reception from 12 noon, performance/films start at 1.30pm), Inverleith House, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. To reserve a place email ihouse@rbge.ac.uk.

Songs of World War One – Old and New: a workshop with Scott Murray. Singer/songwriter Scott, of Sangsters fame, has been involved with the New Makars Trust in Fife. 3-5pm, Pleasance Cabaret Bar, 60 Pleasance. £5: tickets from Edinburgh Folk Club, Coda, The Mound or Paddy Bort on 0131 650 2458/email: ebort@ed.ac.uk. Part of the Carrying Stream Festival 2014

Portrait Detectives! Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! For ages 4-12. 2-4pm,  Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street. Free and unticketed. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries.

Life Through A Lens: using a mixture of microscopes, experiments and art, join a voyage of discovery – see what the pioneers of microscopy saw and find out how microscopes are helping scientists today. 12.30-3.30pm, Real Life Science Studio, Gateway, Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Row. Free. With The Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology.

Blackwell’s Edinburgh Teenage Book Group: if you love to read, or just want to read more, join the group to talk about your favourite books and the latest teenage fiction – classical to contemporary, historical to dystopian, anything you fancy! Currently reading Faye Bird’s My Second Life. 2-3pm, Blackwell’s, South Bridge. Free: if you would like to join, just email your details to schools.edinburgh@blackwell.co.uk.

Remembrance Day Concert: San Salvator’s Chapel Choir.  Conducted by Tom Wilkinson. 6-7pm, Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place. Free.

Devotional Performance of Durufle Requiem: to be followed by a reception hosted by Friends of the Cathedral. 3.30pm, St Mary’s Cathedral, Palmerston Place.

St Giles at Six: Edinburgh Napier University Chamber Choir: Remembrance. Choral music for the season  of Remembrance by Parry, Elgar, Bainton and John Ireland. 6pm, St Giles’ Cathedral, High Street. Free: retiring collection.