The Red Door

Double dip recession you say... mad surreal comedy please!

2012-01-26T11:08:00.000Z

It's all doom and gloom in the financial biosphere today, SO why not lighten the mood with Noel Fielding's Luxury Comedy show starts tonight on E4! I for one am looking for some light relief and a bit of madcap comedy won't go amiss! And here's a beautiful little narrated extract from his new book, oh yes feeling the Noel Fielding love today!
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/interactive/2011/nov/18/noel-fielding-the-scribblings-of-a-madcap-shambleton

2012-01-24T14:30:00.001Z

'Mr.Stag' by A Wooden Tree - as featured in Country Living magazine. Lovingly hand sewn Mr.Stag wall plushes in a range of vintage fabrics available at the Red door Gallery. Beautiful and unique.

2012-01-20T17:25:00.001Z

So the question today is this, what do you love most, food, wine or Elle Decco? It is a pretty tough call but this blog post covers them all. This month's Elle Decco features a wee shout out to Stuart Gardinier's Wine paring teatowels which help you ensure always to have the best wine with your dinner. Like all of his products, this teatowel combines a functioning object with beautiful design, a hint of education and a dash of humour.

If you love a good chart then this is right up your street, there is one to help you organise your Wild Foods, Fruit & Veg, Flowers and Seafood into seasons. We have had Stuart's Seasonal Produce collection in our window for most of January and they are just causing so much delight. From forragers of wild foods to members of Hugh's Fish Fight, there is something for everyone, although we don't sell Elle Decco we are more than happy to browse through a copy if you bring one in!

email info@edinburghart.com to reserve your organic teatowel (from £11.50) as they are racing out the door.

Ace Jewellery by Studio Roar!

2012-01-16T16:37:00.001Z

Here are just a few brilliant examples of jewellery designed and handmade by Studio Roar (aka Rasha Akhatib). We have stocked her stuff for over a few months now and they're proving quite a hit! Her designs are originally based on 18th century Middle Eastern geometric patterns and she hand inlays the coloured acrylic into the walnut wood by hand right here in Scotland!! Her designs are exclusive to us in Britian and are soon to feature on our new online shop in February, meanwhile though you can snap them up at our shop on Victoria Street!

2012-01-14T13:20:00.002Z

Congrats to Lucky Frame and their fab Pugs Luv Beats app, nominated as finalists for IGF award! Created right here in Edinburgh it's a must have for all iphone, ipod touch and ipad owners - truly the puggiest music game of all time! Happy playing! http://www.luckyframe.co.uk/pugsluvbeats/

A little bit of Regina Spektor....

2012-01-13T16:39:00.000Z

Oh this has got many a toe tapping today!

2012-01-12T12:56:00.003Z

Get a look at those.... birdies! We've all had a giggle at Eilidh Weir's tongue-in-cheek Topless Birds 2012 calender- January sale price only £8!!

Drawing skills to be jealous of!

2012-01-09T11:38:00.001Z

Check out these drawings by Via Fang! They are just a small example of the phenomenal drawing skills that she has, go check out the others on her website www.viafang.com! I believe she is a fan of Edward Gorey....it may be controversial to say this, but we might like her drawings more!!!

I Hexagon Blockbusters

2012-01-06T16:53:00.000Z

Well, how could you not love Blockbusters? Presented by the entertainment legend Bob Holness who has sadly died at the grand age of 83. There must be a lot of you out there who remember the tedium of a day off school sick being rescued by the bright lights of the Blockbusters honeycomb game board - it was all so high tech! Would you believe it was among the very first day time quiz shows which ran for a decade, that's over 1,200 shows!

The other fact we are particularly fond of, is that Bob was the second actor to play James Bond, cast as the super smooth spy in a 1956 Radio adaptation of MoonRaker - someone better tell the good people at Trivial Pursuit!

We Hexagon Blockbusters, Bob Holness and Louis Hudson for his great design above.

Do you recognise any of these fameous first lines?

2012-01-05T12:44:00.001Z

Tis the season to curl up on the couch with a great novel while the wind whistles down the Chimney and the slates blow off the roof. While researching which book to crack open with tonight's steaming mug of hot chocolate, this beautiful animation popped up on screen.

Owen Gildersleeve was commissioned by The Guardian (non the less!) to create this enchanting short film. It is a a stop frame animation, made from Owen's favourite media - the seemingly simple paper cut. A true labour of love and a thought provoking test of your knowledge of classic novels. If you recognise more than Peter Pan, please help us out - feeling like a fully fledged philistine!

A selection of Owen's work is currently available in our bricks and mortar store or just send an email to info@edinburghart.com. Owen's cards at £3 or this delicate, hand cut leaf study in a box frame is £85. A feast for your eyes, on a day definitely windy enough to knock the leaves of the sturdiest of Edinburgh's trees! Wrap up cosy now...

Keep your hat on luv!

2012-01-03T13:09:00.000Z

Get the Gossip Girl look with Ann-Marie Faulkner Millinery - chic and stylish for even the windiest of days! A Duncan of Jordanstone graduate, Ann-Marie is now based in London where she creates unique hand crafted hats and headpieces with an emphasis on bespoke fabrics - check out her blog for more pics of her fabulous creations www.annmariefaulkner.wordpress.com.

Beautiful fashion from Vi Nouveau

2011-12-29T13:25:00.003Z

Check out these beautiful pictures from Vi Nouveau's recent photoshoot! The Scottish duo have been styling, tailoring and customising vintage garments since 2010. They have been super busy styling for adverts and magazines and creating gorgeous one of garments and jewellery for design markets and their own online shop! Check out some of their amazing finds now at their website vinouveau.co.uk and find them on twitter, facebook and ebay, for your one of a kind vintage piece!!

Pop Up Precious

2011-11-26T13:16:00.001Z

The Association for Contemporary Jewellery Edinburgh (ACJ) invites you to POP UP PRECIOUS - a showcase of extraordinary jewellery by some of Edinburgh's premier designers. Just in time for the start of Christmas shopping whether you want to treat yourself or find a prefect gift for someone special, Pop Up Precious is a unique opportunity to buy direct from local designers. From silver and gold to textiles and reused materials there's something to suit all tastes and budgets! On until the 3rd December at The Framed Gallery, 11B Gayfield Square, EH1 3NT and open everyday, don't miss out on this great opportunity to see this one off show! Check out the ACJ Edinburgh's blog at http://popupprecious.wordpress.com/.

2011-11-23T13:41:00.001Z

Cleo Ferin Mercury's beautiful collars are among our favourite new arrivals - one fan described them as Chic AND fun, and we think that is perfectly apt! The TLC gone into the production of each hand made collar shines through and they are the kind of item which puts a spring in your step and a smile on your face! They are just £23 each, available online tomorrow, and we hope to have some more works in from Cleo soon.

2011-11-22T13:21:00.001Z

The Fence Collective's beepy, enfant terrible record label titled De-Fence was set up by OnTheFly in 2006. Released yesterday, this double A side vinyl features new works by the great Malcolm Middleton (Arab Strap) and the illusive River of Slime (FOUND). The List magazine named this single of the week in their review, and it's worthy of the praise. Look out for them in a record store near you or check out the De-Fence shop to buy this and other amazin releases including HMS Ginafore, Viva Stereo, and the dance floor filler, OnTheFly himself.

2011-11-03T14:27:00.001Z

A couple of us know Lu Flux from Edinburgh College of Art when she upcycled vintage fabrics into glorious smock style dresses and skirts, and hand knitted the most adorable 'fox stole' scarfs, for her final fashion design degree collection! It was undeniable even then that she was a talented lady so we thought we'd share with you some of her amazing, amazing work since graduating from the ECA. She has gone on to pattern cut for bernhard willhelm and has since been working and creating her own designs, which i hear are very popular in Japan!! Check out her website and blog for the cutest and funniest garments imaginable!

2011-10-23T13:36:00.001+01:00

We recieved some brilliant stock designed by Lynsey Jean Henderson recently, in the shape of a beautiful oversized cushion (in the squirrel pattern above) some stag print throws and fox tea towels! Her bespoke wallpapers and fabrics are based on her love of all things scottish especially the beautiful animals and plantlife. She's been featured in Homes and Interiors Scotland magazine and has decorated the walls of a castle and hall. She is currently working from her screen printing studio in Leith where she holds printing classes as well (check out her website for classes!)

We're in The Guardian's TOP TEN!

2011-10-14T10:44:00.000+01:00

Victoria Street is certainly a beauty and our Red Doors have been snapped by many an avid photographer, but this snap in particular stands the chance of becoming one of the most recognised. It has recently been selected and published by The Guardian to represent The Red Door Gallery as 1 of 10 of the Best Craft and Vintage Shops in Edinburgh! We are just tickled rouge to have been selected and reccomend you have a look at the fantastic Edinburgh City Guide this list has been compiled for.

Edinburgh is not the only city The Guardian has put under style analysis. So far London, New York, Paris, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Rome, Berlin and Istanbul have all been scoured their very best shops, accomodation, galleries and venues. Let's face it, there's no arguing with their taste - even the interactive map is enough to transform your staycation into a cyber-cation, so it would seem wise to check in on your next... vacation.
On another note, this photo of Victoria Street was taken by Karen Chan 16 on Flickr/some rights reserved and it has us wondering how many other snaps there are out there of our doors. If you have have one, feel free to send it our way - never know, it might just end up on the cover of a magazine!

Fornasetti

2011-10-13T09:00:00.000+01:00

We recenty discovered the cult brand Fornasetti at The Red Door Gallery! Fornasetti used to design everything from fabric, ceramics, wallpaper, furniture and clocks like the ones above!! Piero Fornasetti concentrated on using black and white motifs mostly but look out for his son Barnaba's recent hot air balloon designs for the brand since taking on his Father's legacy at www.fornasetti.com

Yummy looking biscuits!

2011-10-10T11:41:00.000+01:00

We were having a wee giggle at these amazingly cute biscuits in The Red Door Gallery last week so we thought we'd share them with you!! They even have Halloween themed characters this month on their website www.biscuiteers.com. Can't beat a bit of eadible art! The dilemma is how long do you marvel over them before you stuff them in your face?!

2011-10-09T14:39:00.000+01:00

Louise Smurthwaite placed a wee bet that we'd like these guys... hate to loose a bet. tUnE-yArDs - you are the business.

Heather McDermott

2011-10-01T15:46:00.000+01:00

Heather McDermott is new to The Red Door Gallery! We've been entranced by her use of gorgeous use of sorbet colours and her take on the punk aesthetic. They'd make a great statement piece for any outfit! I'm particularly loving the necklace above! So far we have her earrings, brooches and ring in the shop and it's surprising how light the pieces are in weight when you hold them. She is currently studying for her MA at the Edinburgh College of Art and this is the result of her work so far, can't wait to see her final show!

2011-09-24T09:33:00.000+01:00

Can you believe Amelie is ten years old? Not a wrinkle in sight!

Here's a bit of good news for any of you secret skimmers out there, this Sunday the Scottish island of Easdale is transforming into the competition field for The World Stone Skimming Competition. This is the perfect excuse to visit the smallest of the inhabited islandes of the Inner Hebradies and make the most of the natural abundance of slate stones. We are not entirely sure if the rules allow entrants to collage their stones as Amelie would have, but the picturesque surroundings, lack of qualifying requirements and welcoming comunity should make for a truely pleasurable experience. Plus, you might just win and the word on the web is... trophies!

2011-09-23T09:01:00.000+01:00

Well if you fancy another slice of vintage pizza pie AND your in East London, we'd heartily reccomend hot footing it to 202 Brick Lane AKA Super Pizza (the name kinda gives the game away, huh) where you can grab a booth, slice and beverage in charming surroundings. Have a peep at the supa-snaps below and don't be fooled by the signage! If your not in East London, just day dream along with us Red Door-ettes....

2011-09-17T17:02:00.000+01:00

Iconic art works are sweeping through France at the moment, popping up in computer laden office blocks. These window based, pix-elated images are created using little more that ubiquitous stationary cupboard staple - the post it. The designers are growing in confidence and competing to out do their neighbors, could this be the beginnings of the Post-I.T. wars? The Guardian has a great feature on them. Feeling inspired yet? If you fancy creating your own sticky-fit form, send us a snap and we'll post it up here to keep track of this illustration war on Tera. Byte me.

2011-09-16T19:26:00.003+01:00

Any of you Scotts ever been tempted by the golden pavements of The Big Smoke? Here are a video's showing what just might happen, you know?! Both these gems are directed by the quite frankly fantastic Ninnian Doff and there are plenty more where these came from...

The first features the emerging talents of musician Martin Brooks (catch an interview in next issue of Acoustic Magazine), and the second is a doccmentry on the new hipster trend of Smoga... gotta love those Scotts Lads in London.

2011-09-05T09:45:00.000+01:00

We have had a roaring Edinburgh Festival over the last month, and as it draws to a close with the traditional fireworks display last weekend, we will be especially sad to see Astrid Jaekel's beautiful paper cut out installation come down. It has really brightened up the disused India Buildings at the top of our bustling Victoria Street, and we hope someone moves in quickly to bring life back to the elegant facade.

Astrid's installation is titled The Curtain Twitchers and features portraits of some of our Senior Citizens peeping out onto the chaotic festival streets. These pieces are entirely hand cut, with tissue paper added for colour. Astrid also created some smaller versions which have been featured in our windows over the last month. A kind of little sister series which are plain black cutouts designed to have any colour slipped in behind. These beautiful, original artworks are just £55 and will available through The Red Door Gallery online and in our Bricks and Mortar Shop. There is a post card pack of the series, if you fancy something a little smaller for just £5.

2011-09-04T09:30:00.012+01:00

It's time to say a fond farewell to our Circus, as tonight we are performers are moving on and packing up our window display. A huge thank you to Seymour, Lovely Pigeon, Astrid Jaekel for all their hard work. Here's a wee reminder that you can pick up your very own Lovely Pigeon cut, make and play circus kit online for £10. Along side Seymour's Highland Games poster for £20 and Astrid Jaekel's Curtain Twitcher's post card pack's for £5.

Our next window display will be The Study Rooms... more information over the next few days!

2011-09-03T11:38:00.000+01:00

Hannah Waldron has been a busy lass, this is an installation of her San Gimignano wallpaper design which is now installed in the new Pizza Express branch at Brent Cross, London. Hannah has created a site specific design for this location, as well as a panel for a glass partition. It will be added to the very top of the ever growing list of reasons to visit the big smoke in the coming weeks!

If you'd like a little bit of the same effect for your own Kitchen, we have this beautiful Window poster available for a mere £20. It has Hannah's distinctive mark making and at approximately A1 size it certainly creates an atmosphere.

Hannah Waldron is a freelance illustrator and printmaker / designer. Having studied at Brighton University, Hannah was awarded the Gerald Dennis prize for Printmaking. Her projects and commissions range hugely in their final outcome, from print to woven textiles installations and we just can't wait to see what she does next!

2011-08-27T16:51:00.001+01:00

Introducing Switch Faces - how much happier could your light switches possibly be?! Henrietta Swift has made up some storming packets of vinyl stickers which are themed as girls, boys or animals so you can decorate and create cheery characters in your home. We've had a go here in the gallery and we've been so charmed that we sinply had to pass on the challenge to Light Up Your Mood. The packs are just £6 and available in store now and online tomorrow.

2011-08-25T11:56:00.001+01:00

If you are out and about this weekend, make sure to stop by The Book Trust, 55 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR for this fun Zine bookfair. I've Zine You is sure to have one of a kind zines!

2011-08-24T20:12:00.000+01:00

This Friendly Chap is know as Parsley, and he has been watching over the other circus animals, performers and audience members currently in residence at The Red Door Gallery. He is a rather delightful screen-print from the fresh from the wondrous imagination of Mina Braun, and we were just pleased as punch to see her interviewed by Red Door Favorite, the Oh Comely Blog. The much anticipated 7th issue of Oh Comely Magazine is now available in store for £4 (soon to be online) and we will (sadly) let you have our pall Parsley for £120, but only if we must...

2011-08-14T19:46:00.001+01:00

Wouldn't it be fantastic to float over Edinburgh in a Hot Air Balloon at this time of year? Seeing the costumed performers, outlandish characters and lovely customers who flock to Victoria Street during the festival is an eyeful itself, never mind the entire city-come-playground all at once! This is David Fleck's latest tribute to Edinburgh town (available in the bricks & mortar Gallery for £55, and online too), which apparently tells the tale of the first Hot Air Balloons launched over the city, a occasion so grand just about everyone had the day off to watch...

2011-08-05T11:27:00.000+01:00

The festival is in Edinburgh and the circus has come to The Red Door Gallery!

Designer and illustrator, Kirsty Thomas (Lovely Pigeon) has created a fantastic circus themed display for our two windows. Kirsty has just launched a brand new playkit which is sure to raise a smile and entice big and small kids to get creative. The circus kit includes all your favourite characters to cut out, colour in, slot together and play... Meet The Ringmaster, Bearded Lady, Tiny Tiny Elephant, Bespectacled Bear, Mr and Mrs Acrobat and many more. Lovely Pigeon was inspired by her love of handlebar moustaches, clever animals and monochrome pattern to create this entertaining little playkit.

We also have new work by Seymour, Astrid Jaekel, TattyDevine and many more!

2011-07-29T11:58:00.001+01:00

It's our most fabulous sale yet: Maptotes!
Have you ever wanted to go to Nantucket or Barcelona but just haven't found the time? Now you can proudly display your imaginary journey to these places while also saving the planet and whales. Maptotes are a handy friend of the environment. We have marked them down from £25 to just £18.

Stop on in The Red Door Gallery and leave like you've just been to New York City, London, Paris, San Francisco and/or many other terrific places!

2011-07-28T11:01:00.000+01:00

Who doesn't love smiling and laughing fruit? Now you can have the happiest fruit around as part of your earring collection thanks to the work of Emma Ferguson, also known as "I Like Birds." We received these earrings about a month ago and they have been a customer favourite. You can also view some of the other new earrings we received from Emma via the link above.

2011-07-26T13:23:00.000+01:00

Just checking in with Lesley Barnes so we can top up her range of beautiful, screenprinted leather book marks and this mesmorising video project popped on the screen! Lesley has animated Belle and Sebastian's toe tapping tune I Didn't See It Coming... we'll let you know when her work arrives back in The Red Door Gallery.

2011-07-24T13:37:00.000+01:00

It’s a beautiful sunny Sunday here in Edinburgh and we hope it is just as sunny wherever you are! Today is one of those days to grab an ice cream or coffee (or both) and head down to your favourite sunny (buy shady) spot. On your way, grab a magazine like Oh Comely, to get inspired for your own creative projects.

We have been selling Oh Comely for a few months now and it has been a real hit with our customers. It’s really different from other magazines as “It's a magazine that inspires people to be creative, talk to their neighbours and explore new things, rather than buy stuff or lose weight.”

If your in the neighbourhood, drop on by The Red Door Gallery to pick up a copy. We have the latest issue and you can stop by our favourite juice bar, Hula, on your way to the Meadows.

Have a great day!

2011-07-22T18:27:00.000+01:00

A lovely pile of post cards just rattled through our mail box, here at The Red Door Gallery, advertising the next exhibition at one of our favorite lunch spots - The Broughton Deli. We hear tales of over 25 artists contributing to an exhibition which displays works of all shapes and sizes inspired by Edinburgh. Each piece relates directly back to a location and these hot spots have been printed up as a walking guide to the cities lesser know points of inspiration. Look out for these maps in the gallery soon and if you in town we'll see you at the opening this Thursday July 28 from 7.30 - 9 pm. Rumor has it our own Red Door-ette Kerstin has some new work on show!

2011-07-21T11:53:00.000+01:00

Get inspired by the bright and fun shapes of Edinburgh based artist/illustrator

Louise Smurthwaite. Her hand bound notebooks (with assorted paper inside) are perfect for writing lists, deep thoughts, or life's fun observations. Her work is a great colourful pick-me-up for those rainy days (if you live in Edinburgh, this can be roughly everyday at some point)!

2011-07-20T15:59:00.001+01:00

The Red Door Gallery recently received some new prints by Claire Hartigan. The above images are a sampling of the new prints (the bear print we are selling has a golden heart). We are excited to be offering more than ten pieces of her work. To learn more about Miss Hartigan, log onto her blog.

We are gearing up for the busy festival month of August so make sure to drop by and see all of our new and exciting stock!

2011-07-13T19:08:00.003+01:00

Fresh cuppa joe first thing in the morning sets the tone for a great day ahead, and we've had a great day with these new prints from Mengsel and this rather outdated little ditty from Frank Sinatra. Mengsel is a Dutch Africans word meaning Mixture and comes from the Illustrator Luzell van der Westhuizen mother tongue. Luzelle has settled in London and has worked worked freelance with great designers like Marc Jacobs. Her Moka Express screen prints are a favorite here at The Red Door Gallery and always strike a chord with coffee lovers. We appreciate a bit of art in our coffees and can't wait till tomorrow morning, it might be time to try some milk art in the coffee... perhaps a swan.

From the top:
Moka Express, White on charcoal screenprint
Tiny Retro Robots, White on Black, editioned screenprint, A3, £30
Swans, 2 colour screen print, on white, A3, £40
Moka Express, Denim Blue on White, editioned screenprint, A2, £50

2011-07-11T20:17:00.002+01:00

This striking pair just arrived in our mail bag this morning, fresh from Olivia Jeffries new studio. These A4 prints are taken from original hand drawings which Olivia releases as signed, editioned digital prints. Her work is always inspired by and sketched upon found papers whose stains, tares and stories can seen through her abstract shapes and text. Available through The Red Door Gallery online shop or in store for £10 each.

2011-07-06T17:37:00.001+01:00

Seymour has been a very busy bee, producing not just one new print, but an entire new print set titled 'Retired Wrestlers'. Any one who was a fan of WWF will love looking at these prints and pondering over what may have become of the lycra clad heros...

The prints come as a beautifully bound pholio set and we love the texture of these prints - apparently this is due to a mix of the gicclee print technique and the silky recycled paper which sups up the ink (in a more balanced way than mixed synthetic papers) to produce these wealthy tones. They are approximately A5 in size and are fully archival quality, signed, sealed and even delivered to your door if you would like, through The Red Door Gallery shop.

The pholio of 5 prints will set you back a mere £50, a strikingly reasonable price for such high quality work from one of our favorite and hotly demanded artists.

2011-07-04T18:37:00.001+01:00

Mina Braun's hotly anticipated exhibition A Time To Wonder opened last Thursday and The Red Door Gallery was jumping! Here are a few snaps of the event, which saw visitor's queuing out the door on one of the sunniest evening's Edinburgh has seen for a long time.

A huge thank you to the very lovely Mina for all her hard work and if your passing by you can have a peep in the windows at her screenprinted Beer Mat Forrest, badges, screenprints and totes. If your not in town, you'll be happy to hear some photo's of her works will be up here next week and they will be available on our online shop as of Thursday morning... if anyone is waiting for news of her sell out Forrest tote, Mina is working on a second print run already - phew!

2011-06-18T11:42:00.000+01:00

The Tail prototype (2006) from greyworld on Vimeo.

Just had a lovely chat with Michael Smyth of Edinburgh's Napier University, who was telling us all about this event he is organising in Shoreditch called Create11. The week long event focuses upon Interaction Design and includes studio visits, talks and demonstrations. Anything that involves the discussion of a human tail as a product is ok by us! Hope this makes you smile on a rainy Saturday.

2011-06-17T16:19:00.001+01:00

With Father's Day fast approaching, we thought you might like a peep at some of our favorite card's for dad's... above is a card fresh from the inspirational, creative world that is Sunlight on Closed Lids. Below is the new 'proud dad' range from the great Hanna Melin. Both are firm faves here at The Red Door Gallery and you'll find them in store and online for just £2.50.

2011-06-15T17:17:00.001+01:00

Paris by Kate Mclelland - oui oui. Here at Le Red Door we feel this print sums up the joys of paris, and would love to see it from a hot air baloon. This hand pulled, limited edition screen print is available through The Red Door Gallery for just £38, vite vite!

2011-06-14T18:57:00.000+01:00

You can never be to sure what you'll find on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, especially as the Summer months kick in. There was some sort of Bentley convention taking over the old cobbled streets yesterday and even though no-one seemed sure exactly why they were on show, it caused quite a stir as they each drove off in turn. We're pretty sure we saw Dick Van Dyke peel off down George IV Bridge... the programs have all been released and the festival magic is coming!

Post by Nicky

2011-06-10T19:24:00.001+01:00

We are all so excited about presenting Mina Braun's first solo exhibition Time to Wonder here at The Red Door Gallery! The exhibition (which is currently at our expert framer's) will be a collection of screen prints hand pulled at Edinburgh Printmaker's Workshop and there are enthusiastic whispers spreading through the city about her brand new pieces!

Mina's artwork is motivated by visual storytelling. Her prints often seem to capture a moment taken from motion and involve characters and themes inspired by the transitional realm of folk and fairy tales. Reflecting on the notion of entering a different world, her characters appear to be in a dream-like state: sleeping, flying with closed eyes, or transforming into animals or trees.

Mina was born in Frankfurt am Main, Germany but studied Illustration in Edinburgh College of Art, receiving a 1st class undergraduate and going on to complete her Masters in 2006. Mina's pholio of works include album cover designs for James Yorkston, Chris Dooks and Orkestra Del Sol. You May also have seen her work in publications for Owl & Lion, Edinburgh Book Festival and The Local's Guide to Edinburgh (£10 through The Red Door Gallery)

Her exhibition runs from June 30th to July 28th. If you would like to pop in between 6.30 and 9.30 pm on Thursday June 30th Mina will be here with us all to meet you and celebrate the exhibition opening.

2011-06-09T11:40:00.000+01:00

The Centre Pompidou is currently home to a retrospective exhibition of works by Francois Morellet, titled Reinstallations. This exhibition focuses upon his three dimensional line drawings, but this chap draws with strip lights! They are just beautiful to look at and his fascination with play and chance makes for a fun, interactive exhibition where you control the installation as your own set of disco lights.

Renzo Piano's and Richard Rogers designed the Centre Pompidou in 1977 and is the perfect venue for this exhibition as the architects share some of Morellet's thematic interests. The re-assessment of space and structure along with the elevation of functional, industrial elements to the center stage. Ace people watching from the plaza in front of the building too!

2011-06-06T12:11:00.000+01:00

There will be a slight focus upon Paris in the next few blogs as we are fresh back from a rummage around the dreamy French capital and this exhibition was a firm favorite! A series of fourteen bento boxes were customised by different designers as curated by the concept lead store uah. This one small store combines food, art and design, a short hop from Le Pont Neuf in the 1st Arrondissement.

The exhibition titled Oh Mon Bento has some charming works with details to eye for and variety of styles from French and international designers - it is an inspirational collection. The larger picture is by the Minakani Design Studio and would make every lunch time a luxury. Their previous projects (including this triangle pattern as wallpaper!) and current collections are well worth a gander.

By Nicky

2011-06-04T11:15:00.000+01:00

Oh Comely - Issue 6

The sun might have vanished from the Edinburgh skies, but the new Issue of Oh Comely has arrived! It just gets better and better. Stop by and pick up your copy now (£4 at The Red Door).

2011-05-28T12:04:00.001+01:00

We are just loving this new video from FOUND by Andy Brown. The single titled Anti Climb Paint is the second to be released from their current album, Factory Craft. Now this tune is pretty darn awesome, but the video gives a rather intriguing peep behind the scenes at one of Scotland's largest (and beloved) family bakeries - Fisher & Donaldson. The talented bakers are working on a secret recipe to release a fully playable chocolate record, yes chocolate! The earily familiar bakers in the video should ensure the finished 7 inch single is perfectly audible and edible.

Post by Nicky

2011-05-27T22:23:00.001+01:00

If you find your feet in the land of West Yorkshire this bank holiday weekend (28th - 30th May) make sure to visit the eagerly anticipated Arts Trail in the World Heritage Village of Saltaire. The three day event is celebrating its fifth year and is showcasing some of Yorkshire’s best creative talent, including innovative textile designer Laura Slater and regular Red Door-ee sunlight on closed lids (both pictured above). Twelve of the historic Saltaire village homes open their doors to the public, whilst playing host to exhibitions by more than 50 artists. Spy more about the event here.

Images top to bottom; Laura Slater - Hand Screen-printed Linen Fabrics, sunlight on closed lids - stationery and prints

2011-05-26T22:25:00.000+01:00

All Shiny and New!

I'm very excited to present a fresh selection of products to The Red Door Gallery. Here is a sneak peek at some of the products now being displayed on our shelves...

Studio Fludd - Hand-painted Wooden Kits (either Magnets or Brooches)

£20 for a set of three or individually priced between £6 - £8.

Studio Fludd Necklaces. Hand-painted, multi-faceted, wooden crystals.

We now stock six different colours including Merry Cranesbill, Mustard Addicted and Bewitched Tree (great names!)

Available on adjustable cord - £24 or metal chain - £28.

Each necklace is beautifully packaged with tie-dye tissue paper and a translucent envelope.

Sono Design - Triangular Mugs in four colourways. (£10 each).

We now have a selection of four greeting cards in store by the wonderful Marta Munoz. The cards are £2.50 each and the design are magical.

Please pay us a visit and see these delightful new products for yourself.

If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us - info@edinburghart.com or 0131 477 3255.

By Rachel.

2011-05-25T12:16:00.001+01:00

One of our favourite artists here at The Red Door Gallery is Tommy Perman, and we love this snap of his print East Claremont Street/Melgund Terrace in its point of origin. The photo (by AJL Ansell) is part of The Broughton Deli Art's call for submissions for their festival exhibition, titled Edinburgh Mapped. They are looking for artists who can link their final piece to a point in the city. These hot spots will be transferred into a printed Map and walking guide of the city's most a-typical highlights. All selected works will be shown in the bustling Broughton Deli for the duration of the festival. If you would like to get involved with this project - and we think you should - then please have a peep here for more information or just send an email to art@broughton-deli.co.uk.
By Nicky.

2011-05-21T13:49:00.001+01:00

The London Nobody Knows? A Scottish stranger had this tucked into his hip pocket whilst wondering the streets of the big smoke. Turns out he has an eye for design too, have a look at Joe Hearty here. Another wee trip tip was lining your walls in silver trays, much prettier than mirrors, but might only work if your walls are massive as they were in the delicious Boundary Restaurant.

The Oxo Tower Warf is a great website to have a run around, especially if you're interested in social enterprises and British design. The Wharf building itself is packed full of fantastic boutiques and studios, hot favourites were aei:kei fashion boutique and Suck UK design.

The most exciting design can always be found in the street. This graffiti alphabet is a project carried out through London with permission from the shop owners - the letter relates to what goes on behind the awning - like a great big game of guess who. Seems to hark back to the very first New York street tags. Anyone with more info, please let us know!

The very lovely Kate Sheridan hosts her own stall in the awesome Spitalfields market, selling her fantastic collection - as we are here. Alongside some prints from the 1800's which would fit very nicely in The Red Door Gallery, don't you think?

These snaps attempt to portray the truly breath taking and inspirational Sunflower Seeds by Ai Weiwei as installed at Tate Modern. Each procalin seed-husk is an individually crafted, mini-painting. The specialists who made them work in small-scale workshops in the Chinese city of Jingdezhen.

The sunflower is a motif used in Chinese Portraiture, the Dictator is often said to take the place of the sun and his subjects are represented by the field of sunflowers, that Ai Weiwei focuses upon the seeds speaks volumes. The scale of the piece is intended to explore the relationship between the individual and a larger population as well as draw attention to the people behind the products 'Made in China'.

If anything will re-affirm your belief that art has power, then this piece is it. Ai Weiwei was arrested by the Chinese authorities while trying to board a plane to Hong Kong on April 3 and no explanation or update on his condition or whereabouts was offered until yesterday, when there was an international sigh of relief. He is officially being held on charges of Tax Evasion, but his dissapearance for almost two months highlights Chinese Human Rights issues. This exhibit is no longer on show, if you would like to hear more or offer your support, please visit The Tate or The Guardian.

By Nicky

2011-05-16T16:50:00.002+01:00

Anyone read The List yet this month? Not only is it looking sharp, but their content's pretty darn compelling too - and not just because The Red Door Gallery gets a mention for stocking Susie Maroon's Respectable Spectacle cases in Claire Sawers' run down of summer's sherbet shades. (£15 in store or send me a wee email nicky@edinburghart.com). We all know the summer spec case is as important as the frames themselves - especially with our sun / rain ratio!

The List Eating & Drinking Guide, AKA the who's who of food in Edinburgh and Glasgow is also included in this month's bumper issue. Some hot faves are The Broughton Deli, Edinburgh and Stravaigin, Glasgow - which has been dolled up recently with the addition of an extra room continuing the eclectic, shabby chic decor. The menu is a delight with adventurous, experimental dishes made with local ingredients (including Scottish seaweed!) and all at a refreshingly affordable price.

By Nicky

2011-05-15T14:16:00.001+01:00

Recognise this handy work? An interesting series of past ups in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh.
By Nicky.

2011-05-12T11:49:00.000+01:00

As car adverts go this one is certainly raising smiles and causing giggles here at The Red Door. Happy Thursday. May the force be with you and yours today.....

2011-05-11T09:51:00.001+01:00

A Little Italian Holiday - Martino Style!

So, I tried to spend my days in Italy visiting the more unusual sights, the independent shops, the restaurants the locals might enjoy. Martin, on the other hand, was your typical tourist! When he wasn't working on his 'Golden' fur, he was out and about being photographed in front of Naked David. Looks like the Lil' Bear had a whole lot of espresso-fuelled fun...

2011-05-11T09:39:00.000+01:00

A Little Italian Holiday.

Hey Folks! Sorry for the lack of blog activity. I have just returned from a weeks holiday and Nicky and Viv have been busy bees in my absence. Italy was simply delightful. I spent three days in Florence and then journeyed down into the Tuscan countryside to stay at my friend Fiona's Guest House. Here are a few snapshots from my travels...

My souvenirs were purchased from 'Le 18 Lune', a little shop that reminded me of The Red Door, 'Boutique Nadine', a stunning new store with two locations (Via de'Benci 32r and Lungarno Acciaiuoli 22r) and from the Flea Market in Piazza d'Ciompi.
Fiona and Simone's Guest House and Outdoor Activity Company can be found HERE. It is in the most beautiful location imaginable and I can not recommend it more highly.
Rachel.

2011-04-29T05:54:00.000+01:00

Congratulations and Celebrations

A little Red Door nod to the happy couple.

Royal Wedding Brooch (£7) by Hanna Melin.

2011-04-25T11:39:00.002+01:00

If you were lucky enough to have someone bring you a cup of tea this morning, then you may be feeling the same amount of love for the ail curing beverage as I am. This picture by the marvellous Sophie Elm conjures up just the right amount of elegant splendour that the Special Brew deserves. It was, in fact my sister who saved the day this morning with her heart warming PG Tips. Can you believe she was waiting for me outside The Red Door Gallery, before I started work with a cuppa tea and a banana? What a cheeky monkey!

This is FOUND covering Eye's so Bright by Carte Le Bon - it's about sisters, of sorts and I'm going to try and lay down a law here, a blog law. If you read this post and have the chance today, then please pass on the cup-o-love, be someone's sister and make their day the tea filled way!

If you are feeling a little more generous you could always invite them over to your house tonight and listen to FOUND on the wireless (with Marc Riley on BBC Radio 6 ) AND buy them a copy of Jeff Josaphine's £22 print, but really a cuppa tea will do nicely.
By Nicky.

2011-04-24T16:24:00.000+01:00

HAPPY EASTER!

Folk Cross-stitch Badges - a gift from Natalie of Owls Go Hoot, soon to be available at The Red Door. Fabric Swallow Stickers by WoodenTree (£4 per pack of 3). Postcard and Beads - lovely pressies from Viv Red Door. I'm a spoilt girl!

The Red Door 'Spring' window display, featuring Fabric Letters by Kerstin Furneisen ('Made to Order' service now available) and Fabric Clouds by Kirsty Anderson of Wooden Tree (sml: £4, med: £6, lge: £8).

A detail shot of one of Kerstin Furneisen's Letters. We now run a very special 'Made to Order' service here at The Red Door. Different fonts, colours and sizes to choose from. Individual letters are priced - Sml: £20, Med: £35, Lge: £60 but there are special deals on multiple letters. For more information please contact us - info@edinburghart.com or 0131 477 3255.

The Red Door 'MayPole' window display.

The Red Door Shop Interior - featuring Fabric Clouds by WoodenTree (see above for prices), Birdhouses by Have You Met Miss Jones (£18), 'Flying Guanaco' by Liam Golden (£15), Seedbombs by Kabloom (£3.50 each).

Easter Egg and Easter Basket Images from Etsy.

2011-04-23T08:55:00.000+01:00

Martin The Golden Sun Bear

Martin arrived at The Red Door about a month ago now. He was a little shy to begin with but over the last few weeks we have really seen him emerge from behind his woolly scarves. Martin works in the Gallery five days a week and likes to spend his days off exploring his new city.

Martin is certainly proving to be a very popular young bear. We have already received four beautiful handmade scarves to keep his furry neck warm, two of which arrived through the post in a parcel simply addressed to 'Martin'. The other two were delivered in person to The Red Door by the very talented Madeleine Shepherd.

Last Tuesday a young lady visited The Red Door purely to see our handsome new employee. During their conversation I do believe I saw his golden cheeks turn a bashful shade of pink. Poor little Martin spent the rest of his week gazing longingly through the Gallery windows and doodling in his Little Otsu Journal. Oh dear...

Martin wearing a scarf made by his creator, Regina of Every Eskimo.

Martin arrives at The Red Door.

Martin's Documentation - birth certificate, visa, family photos.

Martin modelling two scarves made by Photographic and Fibre Artist Madeleine Shepherd.

Thank you so much Madeleine, he looks incredibly dapper!

More photos of Martin's growing scarf collection coming soon...

2011-04-20T16:03:00.006+01:00

re:alignment

Richard Strachan at Schop gallery, Edinburgh

Until June 17

Napier Degree Show

at the Merchiston Campus, Edinburgh. May 25 - June 6

Papi Falso

at The White Horse, Edinburgh, tomorrow night

Right Royal Pop Up shop

from Red Door Gallery Favourite Lovely Pigeon

Anstruther, 28 April - 9 May

Annie Mo's

Flagship store, Great Junction Street, Edinburgh

Wanderlust

Louise Smurthwait at The Broughton Deli, Edinburgh

Untill May 22

Well, this sun is making me fancy a stroll so I imagine you must all be feeling the same. If you're on your way to our Bricks and Mortar Shop on Victoria Street, why not stop into one of these choice events. I like to try and keep my finger on the pulse so please let me know if you're planning anything exciting in Edinburgh and I'll be there with bells on!

nicky@edinburghart.com

2011-04-18T11:49:00.004+01:00

Literaty Heights

Wuthering Heights by Kate Bush

Dizzying Heights at Obscurio

Withering Heights

While we were hanging the new Spring window last week, the conversation turned to Kate Bush (as it does) and Claire Sawers reminded us of Alan Partridge's storming send up from way back when. We had a great time assembling our May Pole with Claire's help and promise to pop up a couple of pictures as soon as possible.

This post has been resting in The Red Door Gallery blog vault for a couple of days now, due to a much needed break in The Big Smoke and our naughty computer having a little temper tantrum. Hopefully Kate will keep you entertained until I can process my snaps from the weekend in London town, you lucky people!

2011-04-07T21:50:00.001+01:00

Day Glo - a selection to brighten your day!

From the top -

- Rosa Ruey - 'Observation Device; Shifting Milliseconds' 2010.

- A surprise in the post from the very talented Miss Anna Searle.

Thanks Anna!x

- The colourful contents of The Red Door hole punch.

- What I do when I have too much time on my hands (hasn't happened for a wee while).

- Rosa Ruey 'Module Assembly Factory'.

- Image from the 'Studio Fludd' blog.

- 'Day Glo' a song by Austin based band - Brazos.

2011-04-06T14:14:00.004+01:00

The current edition of The List Magazine £2.50.

Can you spot The Red Door Gallery products?

Featuring 'The Independent Guide to Shopping In Scotland'.

Elsie Dodds F Repeat print cushion £39

The Wrap Magazine, Issue 1 £7

Available through The Red Door Gallery

Kate Sheridan Eve Bag in Black & Tobacco Triangle print £55

Available through The Red Door Gallery

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;bbbb

The current edition of The List magazine is a who's who of Scottish makers and inside is the inspiring 'Guide to Independent Shopping'. The Red Door Gallery is, of course, well represented and all over the front cover. Thanks go out to the hard work of everyone at The List, our products are jumping off the page and we feel like singing it from the rooftops! It is not every day The Red Door feels like Anne Miller, so come on Fred, let's enjoy this dance!

2011-04-05T17:45:00.002+01:00

The last few days have packed with gift wrapping here at The Red Door Gallery - as people choose prezzies for mums, family and friends. Sometimes the presents that mean the most are the one's routed in the past - maybe a familiar recipe for meringues from an old friend, a new owl coin box called Bernard which stirs old memories or some photos from years gone by. These family photos were given to me my Dad on Mother's day. If you're curious, I'm the one in the middle in both snaps, as in age with my bigger sister and younger brother.

If you would like a Bernard of your very own, he is £12 or a Better Late Than Never card by Alison Hardcastle, they are both available through The Red Door Gallery, or feel free to send me a wee email. nicky@edinburghart.com.

2011-04-04T08:57:00.000+01:00

Submissions

I would like to thank everyone who has submitted work to us in the past months. It is very exciting to see so much talent! I hope you can appreciate that during my first months as Gallery Manager I have been busy learning all the ropes and getting to grips with the running of The Red Door, it's a busy little place! As a result of this, I'm afraid I have not had the chance to reply to all the submissions as yet. Please do not take a lack of response as a reflection on your work or as a definite 'no'. At any one time, I may be looking for something very specific when viewing submissions, filling a gap that I feels exists within the gallery. With this in mind, if your work is not suitable at one time, it may be right at another. I apologise for any inconvenience and would like to thank you for your patience and understanding.

Rachel.

2011-04-03T09:36:00.002+01:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

Me and My Mum. x

This one's for you M...

Post by Rachel.

2011-04-03T09:02:00.000+01:00

Busy blogging back in the late 80's. Such a little pro!

Post by Rachel.

2011-04-02T11:42:00.000+01:00

Mama, You've Been On My Mind...

Clockwise from top - Kate Sheridan Purse - £35, Rebecca Little Teapot Necklace - £32, Kate Sutton 'My Favourite Recipes' - £6, Lovely Pigeon Peacock Brooch - £12. All available in store at The Red Door.

Clockwise from top - Shan Annabelle Valla Earrings - £16, Owls Go Hoot 'Min' Postcards - £4.50, Sunlight on Closed Lids 'Little Boy with Flowers' card - £2.50, Jane Blease Brooches - Small £12.50, Medium £18, Sarah McNeil 'Patchwork' card - £2.50. All available in store at The Red Door.

Flower Photographs from the beautiful Saipua blog.

'Mama, You've Been on my Mind' is originally a Bob Dylan song. I believe it's actually written about a girl named Mama but it's so pretty I wanted to include it in this post.

2011-03-30T10:33:00.001+01:00

French & English Confectioner's

A very talented group of ladies I know run a 'travelling boutique' in London named 'Swanfield on Tour'. They pop up at various locations, hold events and sell the creations of a select cluster of artists and designers. Last year, whilst visiting a Swanfield location in Soho, I was introduced to the design label French & English Confectioner's.

Established in 2007 and created by Lucie Gonnard, French & English Confectioner's aim is 'to create a range of simple, classic luxury leather goods'. Each product is expertly handmade to order by Lucie in her workshop.

The Red Door Gallery now offers a selection of Lucie's purses and satchels. The purses are available in the cream or black patent leather or the natural leather (£15.00 each). The satchel comes in either the Classic or Scalloped design (£65.00 each). The Classic can be purchased in black, cream or grey patent leather and the Scalloped in cream or grey. The leather is unbelievably soft and the designs are perfect in their simplicity. I am currently on my second day faced with the dilemma of which colour to go for! It's a tough life.

P.S A little birdy told me that the Swanfield ladies might be flying in the direction of The Red Door in the not too distant future. Watch this little space...

Post by Rachel.

2011-03-29T09:22:00.000+01:00

My Man of the Moment : HOLLIS BROWN THORNTON. (USA, b.1976)

I could spend hours and possibly even days looking at this artist's work.

You can see more either HERE or HERE.

'Dealing with themes of memory and perception, Thornton uses modern cultural artifacts ranging from family photos to pop culture imagery in order to illustrate the modern relevance of these things from the past. In the acrylic paintings, pigment transfers, and marker drawings, the use of erase face, limbo lines, outdated media, and wallpaper patterns all play key roles in uniting the fleeting present to a lingering past. Thornton currently works in a warehouse studio in Aiken, South Carolina'.

2011-03-28T14:54:00.000+01:00

Postcards From London

Last week I enjoyed some sunny days strolling around the streets of the English Capital. Here are a few snapshots from my trip...

Exploring the streets surrounding Borough Market. After graduating I spent a summer working for The Southwark Film Office. I have always loved this area of London, good memories came flooding back.

I sat and drank coffee at The Curzon, Soho. Perfect spot for a good bit of people watching. I think Soho is a very special place.

The best exhibition I have been to in a long time - 'Pioneers of the Downtown Scene' New York, 1970s. The Barbican Art Gallery. On Until 22nd May 2011. Go see!

Postcards purchased at The Tate Modern - (clockwise from top - 1.Gerda Steiner & Jorg Lenzlinger 'Das vegetative Nervensystem', 2006; 2. Wolfgang Tillmans 'Rosen' 1994; 3.Kiki Smith 'Pool of Tears 2, 2000).

Colourful balloons at my friend Eilidh's house. Eilidh Greig is an exceptionally talented stylist and now works as Junior Fashion Editor at GQ Style. Oh the glamour. Exciting times!

I went to see 'The Umbrellas of Cherbourg' at The Gielgud Theatre. I absolutely loved the set design and all the wonderful little props.

A very delicious lunch at Pattisserie Deux Amis, before a trip to the 'DIRT' Exhibition at The Wellcome Collection.

I went to visit my lovely friend Emma Newton at the stall she runs at Spitalfield's Thursday Antiques Market. She very kindly gave me these beautiful coasters that she transformed into hanging ornaments. I purchased the ribbon from VV Rouleaux. I am still mourning the loss of their Glasgow store, so I had to take a trip to Marylebone Lane. A girl simply can't own too much ribbon.

" When a man is tired on London, he is tired of life". Samuel Johnson.

Post by Rachel.

2011-03-25T13:59:00.102Z

One for a wish...

You know how to wish... don't you?

You just put your lips together and blow the dandelion seeds away.

Sunlight on Closed Lids, Limited Edition Print exclusive to The Red Door Gallery £25

Two for a kiss...

Alex Holder's paintings reproduce the dated cover's of Mills and Boon Books
Created as part of the W Project for International Women's Day

Three for a Letter...

Pick a letter and find the animal in this spring bright Ink + Wit Poster
£36 through The Red Door Gallery, please email me for more information

Four for something better...

Art rocker's weekly 10 song spottify play list will rev up your Friday Feeling
FOUND 10 for Artrocker is coming soon, a little bird tells me it features The Anthem by Onra

Five for a disappointment...

Ordinary Sadness, screen-printed, Ltd Edition Apron by Third Drawer Down
£30 through The Red Door Gallery

Well, I'm wishing big today... for the sunlight to stay for the Weekend! The only disappointment so far has to be the usual dose of Hay-fever that this fantastic sunny weather brings with it. One of our lovely customer's counted out my sneezing fit today with the saying which has inspired this blog post, maybe not such a disappointment after all...
...unless I've got a cold.

nicky@edinburghart.com

2011-03-23T14:51:00.003Z

Little Women, 1949

Andy Warhol, Men In Her Life, 1962, Silkscreen, pencil & paper

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, 1958

Cleopatra, 1963

The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, Est 1985

in memory of friend Rock Hudson, co-star Giant, 1956

2011 Oscars

Elizabeth Taylor - Golden Age Movie Star, Legend & Fashion Icon died today

2011-03-21T07:43:00.000Z

Off to catch the train!

Thank you for all the great recommendations.

I'll leave you with a bit of Lee Hazlewood.

See you next week.

Rachel.x

2011-03-20T13:03:00.009Z

Today sees the return of the sell-out World Kitchen art and foodies event to Out of the Blue's Drill Hall Cafe on Dalmeany Street, just off Leith Walk. This Multi-Cultural Sunday Brunch celebrates the diversity of talents, tastes and styles found in the Leith area. For just £4.50 you can choose your food from a wealth of dishes all selected and made by the local community.

The event was already underway and when I left this morning and it was thriving with mouth watering wafts of food from the kitchen, up-beat live music, and a thoughtfully composed exhibition of artworks which will remain on show until Wednesday this week. For today only, a crafters stall houses jewellery, collage, home-wares and art works, the origins of which demonstrates the close ties Scotland's population has with international communities.

If you're lucky enough to have already booked a ticket for this event you're in for a treat, if not, then keep your eyes here for the next event. The quality of food, artworks, very reasonable pricing and warm, welcoming company are reason enough to join in. The knowledge that proceeds from the event support Multi-Cultural Family Base and their work with young people, makes for an exceptional afternoon's entertainment with a heartfelt bonus.

2011-03-20T09:24:00.000Z

London Calling...
After three busy months getting settled in at Red Door Central, I decided it was time to take a little break. Next week from Monday to Friday I will be darn sarf treading the streets of London Town. Before packing my bags and moving to Scotland, I used to live in the Big Smoke, I will therefore be catching up with some friendly faces and visiting a few old haunts.
I do like a good recommendation. The lovely Miss Verity Keniger has suggested that I add the Watercolour Exhibition at Tate Britain to my list of activities. What would you recommend? I absolutely love visiting new places, have you discovered any little gems recently? Please help me fill up my trip! You can either comment here on the blog or drop me an email - rachel@edinburghart.com.
I look forward to reading your suggestions. Thank you.x

2011-03-19T20:19:00.000Z

A Tribute To The Triangle...

We received the SS11 Kate Sheridan Collection last week. It is an exciting mix of bold, geometric prints and rich, earthy colours. Our shop selection includes make up bags, a variety of purses, box bags, brogue totes and the evening bag. The collection will also be available shortly in our online shop. For any enquiries please do not hesitate to email us - info@edinburghart.com or give us a bell on 0131 477 3255.

My triangular tribute includes -

The Tobacco and Teal Box Bag - £65

'Triangle Prayer' by Nicole Docimo - found here.

The Peach Leather Clip Purse - £22

'Howling Wolf' by Stephanie Webb - £12 at The Red Door

Sand and Black Waxed Brogue Tote - £88

'Glass Castle' by Nicole Docimo - found here.

Black and Peach Makeup Bag - £12

2011-03-19T12:14:00.000Z

She's A Rainbow...

The sun is shining and the lovely Kirsty Baynham has very kindly splashed bright and beautiful colours all over The Red Door Gallery. 'Felt Tip Butterflies', 'Cloud Mobile' and 'I Heart Russian Warships' are some of the imaginative titles given to Kirsty's Giclee Prints. We have a selection of six prints in store with prices ranging from £10 - £25. Each colouful design is carefully printed by Kirsty herself on her very own Giclee Printer.

If, like me, these illustrations are right up your sunny street, we also have greeting cards (£2.50 each), postcard sets (£3.50) and adorable mini card sets (£4.50) available for your delectation.

Colours Everywhere!

2011-03-17T09:21:00.000Z

This is Martin. He is a Golden Sun Bear. He is from Royal Oak, Michigan.

After a grueling and intense series of interviews, Martin beat fierce competition to become the new member of The Red Door team. I am yet to meet Martin in person, his interview was carried out over Skype (how very modern of us!) Martin arrives at The Red Door next week, we are very excited to welcome him to our team!

I am hoping that, as a Sun Bear, Martin will bring a little sunshine with him. However, I am a little concerned that it may take him some time to adjust to the inclement Edinburgh weather. If you would like to make Martin a 'Welcome Scarf' that would be very much appreciated. He is 5 inches tall. Please send your scarf to - Martin @ The Red Door Gallery, 42 Victoria Street, Edinburgh. EH1 2JW or come and meet the wee chap and deliver it in person. All scarves will be modeled by Martin here on The Red Door blog.

If you would like to adopt one of Martin's friends you can find them at one of my very favourite Etsy shops - Every Eskimo. Many thanks go to Regina.x

2011-03-17T08:52:00.001Z

As promised, here are a few images of the 'Flight of Fancy' exhibition. The sun came out just long enough yesterday for me to take some snaps. Unfortunately they are a little blurry and do not clearly feature the work of all the artists. Like most photographers, I shall choose to blame the conditions I was forced to work under...tut tut! Anyway, I would therefore urge you to come and visit us on Victoria Street and see the work with your own eyes hanging in all it's splendid glory.
I would again just like to thank MFA Illustration group for all their hard work and creativity. Please ask a member of The Red Door team if you are interested in purchasing work from the exhibition.

2011-03-16T18:27:00.003Z

A colourful package of screen prints arrived from Rich Fairhead today - sure to put a smile on your face and a spring in your step! Lost Helmet and Falcon for Sale are both £45. The rest of the beautifully printed paper is what talented, prolific artists like Rich use for packaging, sometimes our artists really spoil us!

2011-03-12T13:16:00.003Z

FLIGHT OF FANCY

Last week the hugely talented MFA Illustration group from Edinburgh College of Art came to install a spectacular exhibition behind The Red Door windows. Entitled 'Flight of Fancy' the exhibition includes all kinds of weird and wonderful works. It is fascinating to see how differently each artist has responded to the theme.

Above is a selection of photographs from the installation of the exhibition and the beautifully designed 'Flight of Fancy' Flyer. Once the sun shows it's face over the city, I will be sure to take and share a few snaps of the finished exhibition. Stay tuned...

Please ask a member of The Red Door team if you are interested in purchasing work from the exhibition.

2011-03-12T12:36:00.000Z

It's here! Issue 5 of Oh Comely.

If I am honest, I nearly cried this morning at the sight of more snow. Enough is enough. A couple of small things helped me through it and brightened the day - a pot of coffee, Nicky arriving with scones for breakfast and the arrival of this lovely magazine. We also still have a few copies of Issues 3 and 4 in stock if you wish to start a collection.

Available in store - £4.00 each.

2011-03-10T12:56:00.001Z

This dancing Lady may have caught your eye if you've been into The Red Door Gallery recently, the original monotype is part of an exhibition which is opening tonight at The Broughton Delicatessen, 7 Barony Street, Edinburgh. Hillary Rogerson is a graduate of Edinburgh College of Art's painting department and also Assistant Manager at The Broughton Deli. Titled Nominate, the curation of this exhibition has been guided by the deli's talented staff, with Hilary's energetic, burlesque dancers taking centre stage.

Rebecca Jane Armstrong's works were nominated by Natasha, whose cheery face has welcomed customer's to the deli over the last 4 years. Rebecca's time consuming and lovingly hand made installation is based upon her interest in 'slow entertainment' - much like the slow food movement championed in The Deli's kitchen. Her patterned plush character's have their own tales to tell and will welcome you to the Deli over the coming month.

Esmee van Breugel is an Edinburgh based painter whose flatmate nominated her striking botanical works. Jen is the newest foodie talent to graduate from service to preparing food in the kitchens. Esmee's background lies in Art History, completing her at masters at Edinburgh University inspired Esmee to turn to the creation of Art Works, and we're jolly glad she did.

We hope to see you at the opening tonight from 7.30pm, where you can sample food from one of The Independant's top UK Deli's along side some fine, fine art.

2011-03-09T10:20:00.000Z

Seed Sapling Tree

Our Postman handed me an exciting looking parcel yesterday. Nice paper is definitely the way to my heart - take note. Beneath the wrap was a collection of Boat Badges created for The Red Door by Marcus Saide of Seed Sapling Tree. Nicky and I cooed over them whilst eating a plate full of breakfast pancakes.

Each badge is delicately handmade from wood and coloured card. We even have an exclusive red sail for The Red Door.

Small badges - £10, Large badges - £14

2011-03-09T09:58:00.000Z

Little Box for a Little Flower...

Last week a gentleman came into The Red Door to purchase a Belle and Boo badge. He explained that is was an apology gift for a lady and asked if I had a box for it to sit in. He told me that he makes origami flowers and wished for the badge to sit on the flower. Our gift boxes are very small and I suggested that they may not be appropriate for housing such a creation. Much to my surprise, he told me that is was perfect and offered up quite a challenge.

At the end of the day, as I was about to shut shop, the gentleman reappeared and presented me with my very own box-sized origami flower. He had sat in the library at the top of Victoria Street and made it for me.

It made my day, week, perhaps even year!

2011-03-08T08:25:00.000Z

'We Have Failed Each Other Miserably' by Christine Young.

What an amazing title!

2011-03-05T11:22:00.000Z

Kate Sheridan SALE! Spring is fast approaching (I hope) and we are set to receive the brand new Kate Sheridan collection. So, in order to make way for the new, we have decided to have a wee bit of a SALE.

Starting from today, there is up to 50% OFF all Kate Sheridan in store and from Monday in our online store.

Bargains galore!

2011-03-01T20:05:00.001Z

Forever a fan of anything French, I couldn't wait to bring the Paris cards by Norwegian designers Darling Clementine back to The Red Door. Best be quick though, they sell like hot cakes...or should I say croissants?

Ooh-La La!

£2.50 each in store.

2011-03-01T11:39:00.003Z

Like many folk these days, we at The Red Door place a great deal of importance on recycling. This is extremely apparent if you are ever lucky enough to see 'CardBoard Mountain' located and hidden beautifully within the shop store cupboard.

Anyway, because of our 'Captain Planet' style approach we were delighted when Polly sent us a sample copy of WRAP, a new design and illustration magazine that doubles up as sheets of wrapping paper.

Issue 1 is available to buy in store at The Red Door. 'It features work and interviews by 10 brilliant designers from all around Europe across 6 x large format double-sided pages, so that's lots to look at, and lots to wrap up!' Wrap is printed on 100% recycled paper.

Issue 1 - £7.00

2011-03-01T11:39:00.002Z

There is very little more pleasing than a good old thrift store find. Here are a few gems I have brought home from recent rummages.

2011-03-01T11:08:00.001Z

Deary me, I apologise for the lack of bloggage last week. I had me Mum up to stay and therefore took some days off to stroll around the city and enjoy this nice bit of sunshine. Here are a few snippets from my Mum-time...

- The ceiling in The Broughton Deli.

- Pear and Raspberry Cake from Falko Konditormeister.

- Little signs of Spring dotted all over The Meadows.