MiK Bits & Pieces research and process

The research and development for the exhibition, Bits & Pieces, involved Kirkintilloch locals, Edward Z. Smith and Don Martin, working with Artist and Curator Trevor Cromie. Together they met and delved into Don and Edward’s archives of colour and B&W photographs and slides, talking together to find threads and patterns that they wanted to curate and share. The process was a balance of exchange and reflection on the moments, events and daily life of local communities, made significant by their capturing and the passing of time. The dialogue developed between Don and Edward along with Trevor shaped a Public Talk and discussion event that influenced the final selection of works, as well as format of presentation. Images were eventually presented as a series of ‘postcards’, social and accessible, allowing each image to connect with its story, written by Don and Edward, revealing the place, time, location and their personal reflection.

The MiK Exhibitions and Community Engagement programme was a year long pilot of exhibitions, realised through a collaboration between local groups in the community, artists and the Made in Kirkintilloch project. Each exhibition drew on local heritage knowledge and interest as a catalyst for exhibition-making.The programme was developed by Fiona Dean working with communities, artists and EDLC staff.