The Eigg Diary

Alexander Stevenson is a research-based artist who has recently moved to Scotland from Nottinghamshire. His practice revolves around the development of self-initiated projects, which he independently conceives, devises, and implements.

From 20th July till 30th August, Alex will undertake a residency on the Island of Eigg, one of the Small Isles of the Scottish Inner Hebrides. Eigg is around 9 × 5 km in size, and lies almost 10 miles from mainland Scotland, with approximately 86 permanent inhabitants. In 1997 the islanders (then numbering only 50) bought their island, in partnership with the Highland Council and the Scottish Wildlife Trust, from the previous landlord. Eigg is now owned and run by the people who live there.

This Blog records Alex’s preparations for the residency, as well as the time he will spend on the island exploring how the islanders relate to the historical and contemporary landscape, especially in the face of ongoing debates around tourism and cultural appropriation.

For more information about Alex’s previous work, click here.

For more information about the Island of Eigg, click here

This project is supported by the Scottish Arts Council and the Highland Council Tourism Development Fund.

Blog articles are written by: Alexander Stevenson.