This summer, Neuk Collective is proud to present “Neuk Perspectives,” an exhibition that showcases the diverse talents of 41 neurodivergent artists from across Scotland, ranging from emerging talents displaying their work for the first time to established professionals. The exhibition will be held at WASPS Patriothall Gallery, Stockbridge, Edinburgh, from 4 July to 28 July.
Neuk Collective is a dynamic, neurodivergent-led initiative focused on promoting and supporting neurodivergent artists across Scotland. Through exhibitions, workshops, and public engagements, Neuk Collective aims to foster an inclusive art environment where diverse voices are heard and celebrated.
Established in 2020, Neuk Collective emerged in response to the significant barriers that neurodivergent artists face within the Scottish arts scene. In 2021, the collective published the Neuk Manifesto—a call to dismantle systemic barriers and enhance accessibility for neurodivergent people in the arts.
The first exhibition in Leith’s Custom Lane and subsequent projects have not only showcased neurodivergent creativity but have also set new standards for inclusive arts practices. Today, Neuk Collective continues to expand its reach, offering a platform for neurodivergent artists across Scotland to engage, create, and lead within the arts.
The second exhibition, “Neuk Perspectives”, features a wide array of media and artistic expressions, including textiles, glass, ceramics, painting, printmaking, video, sculpture, and sound. This event not only highlights the artists’ unique talents but also serves as a model for designing art exhibitions that are inclusive and accessible to neurodivergent visitors.
Tzipporah Johnston, founder of Neuk Collective said: “Neuk Perspectives is not just an exhibition; it’s a movement towards reshaping how the art world accommodates neurodivergence and diversity. Through our work, we are challenging the norms and demonstrating that art spaces can be both inclusive and enriching for everyone.
“During my time working as a co-producer on Neuk Perspectives, I’ve been very moved by the sheer creativity and scope of the work that makes up the exhibition,” said co-curator Elspeth Wilson. “It’s been a real privilege to be able to work with a group of such talented, engaged and generous artists and I can’t wait to be able to share the exhibition with the wider public and to see their responses to the work.
“I love the title ‘Neuk Perspectives’ and I think it is important to note that the ‘perspectives’ represented here go beyond the identities and topics associated with neurodivergence”, said co-curator Amy Milner. “Of course, there is work that explores the experience of being neurodivergent and relating to the world, but the audience can also expect work that speaks to a range of themes, both personal and political, such as childhood, nature connection, climate change, and mental health/trauma. Being a Scottish collective, Scotland is a big character in this exhibition as well.”
Special Accessibility Features:
- Understanding the needs of neurodivergent audiences, the exhibition includes several tailored accessibility features:
- – A quiet space for visitors who need a break from sensory stimulation.
- – Availability of ear defenders and sensory supports like stim toys.
- – Easy Read exhibition interpretation
- – Closed captions for all video content.
- – A Visual Story available pre-event to help visitors familiarise themselves with the environment.
- – A British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter will be present during the opening event to increase accessibility for all.
- Creative Scotland is supporting this exhibition.
Event Details:
- – Exhibition Dates: July 4th – July 28th, 2024
- – Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11 AM – 5 PM
- – Venue: WASPS Patriothall Gallery, Patriothall (off Hamilton Place), Edinburgh, EH3 5AY
- Detailed directions to the gallery can be found here
The whole community – and especially neurodivergent people and their friends, families and supporters is invited to the exhibition showcasing the vibrancy of Scotland’s neurodivergent artist community.
https://neukcollective.co.uk/exhibition/
The work used in the exhibition flyer is from “Decatstructed” by Marzena Ostromecka.
Artists with work in the show are: Emma Ainsley, E wan Arthur, Sarah Barnard, Tom Bird, Carol Clark, Juliana Capes, Gaelle Chassery, Julia Darrouy, Megan Devenny, Sophie Demery, Indie Flynn, Jane Francis, Louise Fraser, Jessie Growden, Abbie Gladwin, Lorraine Hamilton, Michael Hutchinson, Dominika Jackowska, Tzipporah Johnston, Dani Kerr, Johanna Koen, Hanna Lappalainen, Libby Lilburn, Jané Mackenzie, Kiara Mackenzie, Francis Macleod, Emma Justice, Molly Kent, Sylwia Kolasinska, Peter Johnstone, Neslihan Tepehan, Aileen Paterson, Audrey O’Brien, Marzena Ostromecka, Victoria Ross, Rachel Nelson, William Niven, Rachel Stanley, Ailsa Turner-Gibb, Alasdair Watson, Emma Whigham, Iona Zawinski.
