Isle of Bute · Scotland

Carol Nunan - Isle of Bute Printmaker

Sithean Studio, Rothesay

Tucked above The Pavilion in Rothesay on the beautiful Isle of Bute, Sithean Studio is a working printmaker's studio where you can see exactly how and where the work is made. Carol specialises in monotypes, collagraphs, and mixed monotype–collagraph works — each print a one-of-a-kind result of plate, ink, and press.

The studio spills naturally into a small home gallery, where finished works hang alongside the tools of the trade. Carol will show you her printing plates, talk you through the processes, and — time allowing — offer a short demonstration at the press.

Your party will be met off the ship at Rothesay ferry terminal, taking you on a walk along the Victorian Promenade before turning up towards the studio.

Your visit

Your host will meet you at Rothesay ferry terminal and walk you along the Victorian Promenade and up through the town to the studio, pointing out things of note along the way — a pleasant introduction to Rothesay before the visit begins.

Carol will welcome you into the studio and take time to find out a little about you — whether you come with an interest in printmaking already, or are discovering it for the first time. From there she will introduce you to her work, her printing plates, and the processes behind them, with a short demonstration at the press.

After around 45 minutes you are invited to browse the studio and gallery at your own pace, in your own time. Tea, coffee or a fresh herb tea will be served, along with homemade shortbread from a local Rothesay bakery and a Tunnock's Teacake — a very Scottish treat.

The return walk to the ferry takes a different route, with the option to make a short detour up to the Lookout at St Bride's Hermitage — the finest viewpoint on Bute, with sweeping views over Rothesay, Canada Hill and Rothesay Bay.

Original prints, greeting cards, giclée prints and glass coasters are available to purchase during your visit — and can be shipped directly to your home address.

Please note: this tour involves a 10–15 minute walk from the ferry terminal, including a steep hill. The optional detour to the Lookout is a short but steep climb, accessible via steps or a zigzag path. Guests should be reasonably fit and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Practical details

Carol Nunan · Printmaker Isle of Bute, Scotland