Fellowship: Claire Gordon

January - May 2025

We are delighted to introduce Claire Gordon as our 2025 Circus Fellow. 

“While my background includes undercurrents of creative pursuits, such as my involvement with music festivals and events across Scotland, and co-founding the Uigshader Living Forest Project, a non profit worker's cooperative on the Isle of Skye, my formal artistic journey truly began with my studies at Moray School of Art. Stepping into the studio environment sparked a passion and a realisation of the potential within me to develop a dedicated artistic practice. My work is process-based, driven by material exploration, and grounded in a studio practice that emphasises experimentation and play. The resulting pieces often take sculptural, three-dimensional forms, constructed from a combination of found and constructed elements.

Beyond the studio, I'm interested in exploring the possibilities of creating more dynamic exhibition spaces and opportunities, hoping to contribute to the creative energy and cultural vibrancy of Inverness and the surrounding area. I would like to play a supportive role within the Highland artistic community, helping to build accessible platforms for students, graduates, and emerging artists. I believe it's important to create these spaces demonstrating the relevance of contemporary art in this region.

This fellowship with Circus will be an opportunity for me to further explore these ideas. I'm excited to immerse myself in a community that values grassroots contemporary art practice and shares my excitement to foster a thriving visual arts culture in the Highlands. I'm hopeful that the guidance and mentorship provided by this fellowship will be invaluable in helping me refine my artistic voice and enable me to connect with a network of fellow artists and art lovers.”

Claire is currently in 3rd year, studying towards a degree in Fine Art at the Moray School of Art which is based at the UHI Moray Campus in Elgin. 

Follow her work in progress on instagram @clairegordonartist 

The 2025 Fellowship has been kindly supported by The Highland Society of London - thanks to them for the ongoing support.