Part of the Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland (TRACS) programme during Edinburgh Tradfest, a new exhibition at Edinburgh’s Scottish Storytelling Centre is inspired by fishing communities and seascapes in northeast Scotland, with artist Stephanïe Vandëm combining oils and mixed-media materials salvaged from harbours, beaches and shipyards to create large scale works evoking links with the local fishing heritage. 

Drawing from the traditions of Renaissance and Latin American art, Fishing comprises 13 semi-sculptural works exploring environmental and identity concerns. Diverse materials such as rubber gloves, ropes, nets, buoys, screws, nails, pine cones and crab shells are used to give three-dimensionality and texture to the works. 

Stephanie explains, ‘The pieces resemble an archaeological find sedimented in cement, sand, metal and found objects. They create puzzles, connecting the personal, political and spiritual elements of my own life and practice. Aberdeenshire’s motto, ‘From mountain to sea’, inspired me throughout the collection.‘