In typical Wyllie style George didn’t call his making space his “studio” but plainly referred to it as “the basement”

Situated in the undercroft of the family home in Gourock and overflowed into the garden overlooking the Clyde Estuary, as does the Wyllieum.

We titled our community making space “The Upstairs Basement”in tribute.

As well as being a making space, the Upstairs Basement features a rolling exhibition programme.

'Big Softies' - 'the toys we held onto' 

Sunday 19th January until Sunday 16th February

Curated by artist Phoebe Weston 

Inspired by Willie Sutherland's paintings of soft toy bunnies, Phoebe has brought together artists Willie, Alasdair Watson, Mary Harker, Jessica Taylor and herself to celebrate the toys that have survived life’s inevitable editing process.

Toys are usually only incidentally caught on camera with their owner, but not always documented in their own right - however here they are repeatedly scrutinised in a kindly way, preserved for posterity and celebrated for their physical qualities as well as what they symbolise. ‘The toys we held onto’ refers to sentimental attachment, as well as the toys that are simply good to hold in your hands. These creations might also be a reminder to cherish the possessions we already have and rediscover the stories they hold themselves.

The group hopes you might even BYOBear or other toys along to celebrate our playful, softer sides and join us for this exhibition equivalent of a hug!

Introducing the artists:
 
Phoebe Weston
@phoebe_weston_making
Phoebe is drawn to dioramas that tell ambiguous stories and inspire childlike wonder, as well as decorative, shrine-like or memorial assemblages that show treasure-like specialness. Animals with gentle expressions and static poses are a recurring theme. Her usual mediums are collage and acrylic paint in a sugary or jewel-like palette.

Alasdair Watson 
@alasdair_watson
www.alasdair.photography
Alasdair Watson is a photographer and artist, working with families, community groups, cultural organisations, and other creators. He uses his photography to connect people, tell their stories, and help create joyful memories. His artistic projects are passionately rooted in the landscapes and languages of Glasgow and Scotland.

Willie Sutherland
@willie_wawa
www.williewawa.com
Willie has a continued interest in the human condition and a desire to pass the message of wellness through creativity to others. He uses a variety of mediums and scale in painting, drawing, sculpture, construction and installation that are whimsical and childlike.

Mary Harker
@mary__harker
Mary Harker studied painting and printmaking M.Litt Fine Art practice at The Glasgow School of Art. Her creative practice explores everyday themes of ageing, identity, memory and loss; identifying a voice that others will recognize through life experiences we have in common. Her work spans drawing, painting and various experimental mediums.

Jessica Taylor
@somanyjessicas  
Jessica works in both Art and Illustration, with a focus on community building and education. She originally studied the History of Post-War Architecture and Planning before retraining in Communication Design at Glasgow School of Art. She is especially interested in self-publishing culture and telling stories that reimagine History or play with the meanings of words.