Visit A Working Printmaking Studio On The Isle of Bute - Sithean Studio
In Conversation
Visit My Studio
Sithean — the Gaelic word for fairy hill — is a working printmaking studio with sea views over Rothesay Bay, and it's open year round. The house was named by its previous Gaelic-speaking owners, and not long after we moved in we discovered why. Mushrooms began appearing in the lawn in perfect circles — fairy rings, as any islander will tell you. We were duly warned not to disturb them when cutting the grass, lest we anger the fairies and invite bad luck. We have taken that advice very seriously ever since.
Whether you're curious about printmaking, looking for original art to take home, or simply want to see where and how the work is made, you're welcome to come and have a look around. Just get in touch first so I can welcome you properly — though if you arrive while I'm elbow-deep in ink, that's the real experience, not a sanitised version of it.
Worldwide shipping available on all prints and gifts purchased in the studio.
What to Expect
No two visits are quite the same. Some days the studio is calm and gallery-like, with prints on the walls and work laid out to browse. Other days it's in the middle of a creative session — ink-covered rollers, scattered plant material, a print still drying on the press. Either way, you're welcome.
Come and find out about the printmaking techniques I use, the landscapes that inspire the work, and the stories behind individual pieces. Browse the prints, gift collections and greeting cards — which have a tendency to spill cheerfully into the living room. There's always a cup of tea or coffee on offer, and occasionally a glass of wine. And if the sun is shining, you're welcome to sit in the garden.
View of the studio and out across Rothesay Bay
Just Visiting? Come and Browse
If you're on the island for a day or a week and fancy seeing a working artist's studio, this is a relaxed and informal visit — no pressure to buy, no appointment needed beyond a quick call or message to check I'm around.
If you do fall in love with something, I can ship it anywhere in the world, so there's no need to worry about fitting it in your luggage.
Tools of the trade and open edition giclée fine art prints on the wall.
Curious About Printmaking? Try It Yourself
If you've ever wondered how a print is made — or had a go at printmaking before and want to explore it further — I run workshops for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced printmakers looking to develop new techniques.
Workshops range from a single day introduction to longer residential retreats, and can be tailored to suit you. You don't need any experience, any special equipment, or any particular artistic background. Just curiosity.
Video of the collagraph printmaking process for this print 'On The Hunt II' was captured in my previous Northumberland studio.
Sunset over St.Ninian’s Bay on the west side of the island and the inspiration for ‘Ancient Warriors Golden Hour’
Exploring the Island
If you're visiting Bute and looking for recommendations beyond the studio — beaches, hill walks, places to eat, wildlife spots, historical sites — I'm happy to point you in the right direction over a cup of tea.
I've also written a complete insider's guide to the island covering getting here, where to stay, where to eat and what to do.
Studio View From The Road
Arctic Terns - Fine Art Giclée Canvas Print
Can't Visit in Person?
You can explore the full range of my work online, or find my prints at a number of galleries. Either way, worldwide shipping means wherever you are in the world, the work can come to you.