Naomi is an interdisciplinary artist based in the Cairngorms National Park. She studied Architecture at the Bartlett School of Architecture UCL, before doing her MA in Design at Central Saint Martins. Naomi is interested in the creation of objects that capture the intangible qualities of place working at different scales, from wearable objects to sculptural and immersive installations. She uses her background in both architecture and jewellery to explore the relationship between the body, objects and space. Working primarily with wood, she creates specific environments and feelings about spaces. With implied movement, her pieces shift and change; objects are created that have life and resonance. Naomi’s work has been widely exhibited including at ‘COLLECT’, The Museum of Arts and Design in New York and the Museum of Fine Art in Montreal and the V&A Dundee on their ‘Design Relay’ project as their lead designer for the city of Aberdeen.

What value does craft have in daily life? 

I live in a sturdy farm house built in the 1800’s. It is high on an hillside surrounded by ancient woodland. Every day I think about the craftsmanship that the original builders used; the consideration of the site, the beautiful and simple forms of the granite and the measured symmetry. The aspect means that the house has the most extraordinary views as it faces the south west garden, and is a protective force against the northern winds. 

As a gardener, I think that gardening and craft are closely tied. Both are about growing and making and both teach me about creativity. They are about care, there is sometimes a degree of unknown alongside unexpected discoveries and the process can be as important as the outcome. They take time and patience as they nourish and nurture. 

What does Scottishness mean to you? 

I have a Scottish surname so have often been mistaken for being Scottish. However I visited Scotland for the first time when I was an adult. I had a wonderful time dancing at a ceilidh and watching a Highland games but what made me return was the extraordinary landscape and quiet solitude. Scottishness to me means now feeling routed, noticing nature and being part of a generous kind community; the larger community of makers, artists and creatives in Scotland and the close community in the surrounding villages. I live in the Cairngorms National park and witnessing seasonality, weather and movement in landscape are what makes me feel a sense of belonging. 

Come and visit us at Bard in Leith to see Naomi’s work, or get in touch with us directly.